Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound

The scan examines the abdominal aorta, the main blood vessel that supplies blood to the lower part of the body.

The scan assesses the aorta’s diameter and appearance. It is mainly used to screen for or monitor an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

• Referral from a GP or another specialist. The scan may be requested for an initial measurement of the aorta or to check a previously recorded result.
• A previously diagnosed aneurysm. Follow the scan schedule set by your GP or vascular specialist. Bring your most recent scan report to the appointment.
• Hereditary aneurysm. Tell your GP if an aneurysm has been diagnosed in a relative. They may consider your family history, age, lifestyle and high blood pressure when assessing your risk.
• Persistent indirect symptoms. If you have persistent abdominal or back pain, or feel a lump in your abdomen, contact a doctor. They may recommend this scan after assessing you.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulge in this section of the aorta that often causes no symptoms. Ultrasound can show its shape and measure its widest part.

Do I need to fast before the scan?

We will provide preparation instructions before your appointment. When booking, tell us if you have diabetes or take medication, and ask whether you need to make any changes to your eating or drinking. Bring your referral letter and any previous aortic ultrasound reports, if available.

You will be asked to lie down and uncover your abdomen. The sonographer will apply gel to your skin and move a small ultrasound probe over your abdomen while viewing the images on a screen.

To get a clearer view of the aorta, the sonographer may apply gentle pressure with the probe, ask you to turn slightly or briefly hold your breath. Tell the sonographer if you feel any pain or discomfort during the scan.

The sonographer will take images and measure the widest part of the aorta that can be seen clearly. The gel will be wiped off your skin after the scan. The 45-minute appointment includes the scan and preparation of a written report.

Your report describes the scan findings, including the diameter of the aorta.

What aortic diameter is considered an aneurysm?

In the NHS screening programme in England, the threshold for an AAA is 3.0 cm (30 mm), using the programme’s measurement method. The table shows NHS screening results by aortic diameter and the recommended follow-up intervals.

NHS results and recommendations

If the scan finds an aneurysm, share the report with your GP or treating specialist. NICE recommends assessment by a vascular specialist for a newly diagnosed AAA. The urgency of referral depends on the aneurysm’s size and clinical findings. If your symptoms continue after the scan, contact your GP.

A comfortable examination

Ultrasound examination is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic method that typically causes no discomfort. The procedure takes place in a calm environment, requires no recovery period, and allows you to return to your normal daily routine immediately.

Qualified ultrasound professional

The examinations are conducted by qualified specialists who pay close attention to detail and the individual characteristics of each patient. Following the assessment, a written report is provided, describing any identified changes.

Prompt results

The examination and preparation of a written report are carried out during a single appointment lasting up to 45 minutes. You receive results that can be discussed with your attending physician to determine the next steps.

Latest-generation equipment

High-quality imaging allows for a detailed examination of internal organs, the assessment of their structure, and the detection of potential abnormalities. Modern technologies help obtain precise diagnostic information for further clinical evaluation.

Affordable pricing

Ultrasound examination is one of the most affordable diagnostic methods. It allows for the assessment of the condition of internal organs, the detection of potential abnormalities, and the acquisition of vital diagnostic information. Due to its affordability, it is widely used in modern medicine.

Can women have an abdominal aorta scan?

Yes. If you are concerned about your risk of an aneurysm, discuss it with your GP. NICE recommends considering an aortic ultrasound for women aged 70 and over who have risk factors such as a family history of AAA, high blood pressure or a history of smoking, if previous scans have not ruled out an aneurysm.

Can this result be compared with a previous scan?

Yes. Bring any previous images or reports to your appointment. The specialist may be able to compare the results. A small difference in measurements does not always mean that the aneurysm has changed; it should be assessed alongside the previous images.

What if the aorta cannot be measured?

Bowel gas can sometimes make it difficult to obtain a clear image of part of the aorta. The specialist will state in the report whether the required measurements could be taken. If the images were not clear enough, your GP or referring clinician can decide whether to repeat the scan or use another imaging method.

• NHS — Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• NHS — Ultrasound scan
• NICE — Recommendations on abdominal aortic aneurysm
• GOV.UK — AAA screening results and follow-up
• GOV.UK — Clinical guidance on ultrasound in the AAA screening programme

• Abdominal ultrasound (£180)
• Abdominal and urinary tract ultrasound (£230)