Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a serious medical condition that requires timely intervention. One of the essential tools for diagnosing and managing AAA is through screening tests. This guide will cover everything you need to know about how abdominal aortic aneurysm screening is done. We will examine the various types of screening tests available and what the procedure entails.
The Importance of Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is a condition that occurs when the wall of the abdominal aorta, a major blood vessel in the body, becomes weakened and bulges out. AAA is generally asymptomatic, meaning there are no visible symptoms in the early stages. The condition is often discovered accidentally during other medical procedures, such as a CT scan or MRI. If left undiagnosed and untreated, an AAA may rupture, leading to fatal results. Screening is a critical preventative measure to detect the condition early and prevent any adverse outcome.
Who Should Get Screened for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
As a preventive measure, AAA screening is encouraged for individuals considered at risk for developing the disease. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of AAA development include a history of smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, advanced age (65+ years), and a family history of AAA. Screening is primarily recommended for men aged 65 to 75 years who have ever smoked or have a family history of AAA. However, some specialists may suggest screening for individuals outside this age range and for women, depending on their risk factors. Discussing your risk factors with your primary healthcare provider is critical in determining if AAA screening is necessary.
The Screening Tests for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
There are two types of screening tests for AAA: abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan.
Abdominal Ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound is the most common screening test for AAA. The procedure uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to create detailed images of the abdominal area. The test is non-invasive and relatively quick (15-30 minutes).
During an abdominal ultrasound, you will lie on your back on an examination table with your stomach exposed. A small amount of gel is applied to your abdomen, and a hand-held device called a transducer is passed over the skin. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce back off the abdominal organs, creating an image on a computer screen. The technician will measure the size of your aorta, looking for any bulges or weaknesses in the wall.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
A CT scan is another screening test for AAA. A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to generate images of the body’s internal organs. The test is more invasive and expensive than an abdominal ultrasound.
During a CT scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a circular opening in the scanning machine. The technician will instruct you to hold your breath for a few seconds while the machine takes several images of your abdomen. The scan takes about 30 minutes to complete. The images generated from a CT scan are highly detailed and can show smaller aneurysms with precision. However, the radiation exposure associated with a CT scan is relatively higher compared to an abdominal ultrasound.
Preparing for an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Test
Preparing for an AAA screening test is relatively straightforward. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions on what to do before the test, depending on the type of screening you will undergo.
Abdominal Ultrasound
For an abdominal ultrasound, you will be asked to fast for six to eight hours before the procedure. Fasting helps avoid gas buildup in the intestines, making it easier to obtain clear images. You should also avoid eating any hard or gas-forming foods for a day or two before the test. You may be asked to drink plenty of water to fill your bladder, pushing the organs in the abdominal area lower and out of the way.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
For a CT scan, you will need to remove all metal objects, such as jewelry and metal zippers, from your body. You will also be asked to drink a special contrast dye before the procedure, which will help to highlight the aorta and other organs. You may be required to fast for four hours before the CT scan.
Results and Interpretation of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening Test
After the screening, the radiologist or physician will review the images and measurements obtained from the test. The results obtained will be summarized in a report sent to your primary healthcare provider. The report will indicate the size of your aorta and whether there is any visible bulging or weakness in the aorta wall. The screening results are either categorized as normal or abnormal, with abnormal indicating the presence of an AAA.
What Happens If an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Is Detected During the Screening?
If an AAA is discovered during the screening, your primary healthcare provider will refer you to a specialist who will recommend treatment options. The treatment plan is based on the size of the aneurysm and how quickly it is growing. For smaller aneurysms, your healthcare provider will monitor your condition closely, requiring frequent screening tests to track its growth. For larger aneurysms, surgery may be necessary to repair the aneurysm and prevent it from rupturing.
Conclusion
Regular AAA screening is an essential preventative measure to discover the condition early and receive timely intervention to avoid catastrophic outcomes. Your primary healthcare provider can help determine if you are at risk for developing AAA and whether screening is necessary. Remember, early detection and intervention are crucial in managing AAA.
FAQs
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Who is at risk for developing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
Individuals with a history of smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, advanced age (65+ years), and a family history of AAA are at higher risk for developing the condition.
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What Are the Screening Tests for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
There are two types of screening tests for AAA: abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan.
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How is an Abdominal Ultrasound done for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening?
During an abdominal ultrasound, a handheld device called a transducer is passed over the skin, creating high-frequency sound waves that bounce back off the abdominal organs, creating an image on a computer screen.
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How is a CT Scan done for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening?
A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to generate images of the body’s internal organs. During a CT scan, the patient lies on a table that slides into a circular opening in the scanning machine.
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What Happens If an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is Detected During the Screening?
If an AAA is discovered during the screening, your primary healthcare provider will refer you to a specialist who will recommend treatment options.
References
- American College of Cardiology. (2021). Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening. Retrieved from https://www.acc.org/~/media/Non-Clinical/Files-PDFs-Excel-MS-Word-etc/Guidelines/Consensus-Statements/2019/04/19/19/01/Abdominal-Aortic-Aneurysm-Screening.pdf
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. (2019). Final Recommendation Statement: Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Screening. Retrieved from https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm-screening