Ultrasound of the Abdominal Aorta

Ultrasound examination of the aorta, with the application of the color Doppler module, is performed primarily for the purpose of detecting or excluding the presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, with a sensitivity of 98% and a specificity of 100%. Approximately, 90% of abdominal aortic aneurysms are located at the level of the infrarenal tract, which is easily studied by ultrasound in most patients. Evaluation of other aortic pathologies, such as acute stenosis or occlusions, dissections, and aortitis, is generally performed on a targeted basis for the presence of relevant clinical signs and symptoms. However, ultrasound is inadequate for proper preoperative planning.