How do they diagnose abdominal aortic aneurysms?

How do they diagnose abdominal aortic aneurysms?

Since AAAs don’t usually cause symptoms, healthcare providers often diagnose unruptured AAAs when they’re performing exams or tests for other health conditions. The following imaging exams may reveal an AAA:

• Abdominal ultrasound: An ultrasound is a quick, painless test that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of your belly. Your healthcare provider may be able to see an aneurysm on an abdominal ultrasound.
• Computed tomography angiography (CTA): Your healthcare provider may do a CTA if they see an aneurysm on your ultrasound. You receive an injection of a contrast dye before a CT scan. Angiography helps your provider see the exact location, size and severity of the aneurysm.