Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Ultrasound
This scan measures the abdominal aorta, the main artery carrying blood through your abdomen, to look for an aneurysm (an enlarged area).
What the exam evaluates
- The size and appearance of the abdominal aorta
- Evidence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (enlargement)
- Changes compared with prior imaging, when available
Common reasons for this exam
- One-time screening is recommended by the USPSTF for men ages 65–75 who have ever smoked.
- Selected people with other risk factors may benefit after discussion with a clinician.
- Measurement of an already diagnosed abdominal aortic aneurysm at a clinician-directed interval.
Approximate duration
Most exams take about 20 to 30 minutes once approved. You can typically return to normal activities immediately afterward.
What to expect
The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld probe over your skin. You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath. Pressure over a tender area can be uncomfortable; tell the sonographer so they can adjust. Ultrasound uses sound waves, with no ionizing radiation. You can usually resume normal activities afterward.
How to prepare
Follow your appointment instructions
- This exam must be scheduled at least three days in advance so the appropriate sonographer can be available.
- The team will confirm whether to fast and for how long. Abdominal imaging may need a period without food to improve views of the gallbladder and reduce bowel gas.
- Ask about water and medicines when fasting is requested. If you have diabetes, are pregnant, or cannot safely fast, arrange an individual plan before the appointment.
- Wear clothing that gives easy access to the area being scanned. Bring earlier imaging reports and your order, if available.
- Continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the team about pain, limited mobility, or positioning needs.
Understanding your results
- Screening is not recommended for everyone. Eligibility depends on age, smoking history, family history, and other factors.
- Bowel gas can limit the view. This scheduled screening is not an assessment for a suspected rupture.
What happens next?
A radiologist interprets the images. Review the report and any recommended next steps with your clinician. The sonographer may not be able to give a diagnosis during the appointment. Persistent symptoms still need follow-up even when the scan is normal.
When to seek care sooner
Sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse, or fainting can be an emergency. Call 911 rather than waiting for an outpatient scan.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: USPSTF Recommendation Statement
JAMA, 2019
- Vascular Ultrasound: Patient Information
RadiologyInfo (ACR/RSNA patient resource)
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise imaging-center bill.
Self-pay price
One transparent price for this exam. Payment terms are presented before your booking is finalized.
Start bookingOur pricing promise
Transparent self-pay pricing — you see the price before you book.
No surprise bills after your visit.
If your service is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
A note on what we are. Palmetto Preventive provides non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. We are not an emergency department, urgent care center, hospital, or a substitute for emergency evaluation, and we are not a longitudinal primary-care practice. If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call 911.
Ready to get started?
Start the guided booking. It takes just a few minutes, and you can move back and forth without losing your answers.