Abdominal ultrasound

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Why it's done How you prepare

What you can expect Cost Results

Definition

When you hear the word "aneurysm," you might picture a bursting or bulged artery in the brain. However, aneurysms can occur in other places in the body. The abdominal aorta is one such place. This artery runs down the length of your abdomen and is responsible for supplying blood to the lower half of your body.

According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, nearly 200,000 people are diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm every year, and 15,000 people die when these aneurysms burst. Fortunately, these aneurysms can be detected with a painless, noninvasive ultrasound exam called an abdominal ultrasound. An abdominal ultrasound can help your doctor decide the best way to manage an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

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Why it's done