Get an Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound in Brooklyn

In order to determine whether or not a patient has an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), an abdominal aortic ultrasound will be given. This test will enable the doctor to see the problem if it is present. This type of ultrasound may also be used to determine the condition of other organs in your abdomen.

How to Prepare for the Test

Before getting an abdominal aortic ultrasound, it will be necessary to fast for at least eight hours prior to the scan. In some cases, you may need to fast for 12 hours prior. Even liquids can make it hard to read an ultrasound, so be sure to ask the doctor about how much water you can drink, and if it is alright to take your regular medications.

Repairing the Problem

When it has been determined that it is necessary to take active steps to repair the aneurysm, there are some options. If it is smaller than 5 centimeters in diameter, the doctor may decide to wait – but will want to reexamine it every six or twelve months.

Surgery is the next option. This is often performed by opening the abdomen and taking out the damaged section of your aorta. Then the removed section is replaced with a graft that is tube-shaped. A third option is to reinforce the weak portion of the aorta with a graft. In some cases, this may be performed by endovascular surgery, which means inserting a tube through the artery in your leg. When this procedure is used, healing occurs much faster than with the open chest version.

Most Common Symptoms

As the aneurysm begins to develop and expands, there often will not be any symptoms. While it is small, there is not that much of a problem. As it continues to grow, the walls of the aorta become weaker and this increases the chances of a rip or tear – which could be fatal in more severe cases.

When a leak occurs, you are apt to have some strong symptoms develop immediately. These include intense pain in your abdomen or back, dizziness, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, sweatiness, and possibly nausea and vomiting.

Risk Factors

Those who are most likely to develop this problem are white men who are 65 or older. Those with a family history of AAA in their background, as well as those with a history of having atherosclerosis are more likely to have this problem. The risk level is also increased if you have had other aneurysms, you are obese, or if you smoke.

Reduce Your Chances of an Aneurysm

If you are 65 or older, it is a good idea to get an ultrasound scan of your abdomen. It will also help immensely if you get high blood pressure under control, as well as high cholesterol levels, and quit smoking.

Dr. Abdul Malik, MD is a Cardiologist who has also been practicing Internal Medicine for over 24 years. If needed, he can help you obtain an abdominal aortic ultrasound to analyze current health problems. He has also trained many young doctors in various hospitals and has earned the title of Consumer’s Choice Award for Top Doctors.