Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Ultrasound Scan
Specialist ultrasound assessment of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries for abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, measurement and surveillance.
Tunica Diagnostics provides private AAA ultrasound scans from our specialist vascular diagnostic clinic in Central London.
What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm, commonly known as an AAA, is an enlargement of the abdominal aorta — the main artery carrying blood from the heart through the abdomen.
An aneurysm develops when part of the artery becomes enlarged. Many abdominal aortic aneurysms do not cause obvious symptoms, which is why they may be identified during screening or imaging performed for another reason.
Ultrasound can be used to visualise the abdominal aorta and measure its diameter. Where appropriate, the iliac arteries can also be assessed.
Diagnostic ultrasound is non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation.
What does an AAA ultrasound check?
Aortic ultrasound allows the size and appearance of the abdominal aorta to be assessed using real-time imaging.
Abdominal aorta
The abdominal portion of the aorta is visualised and assessed using ultrasound.
Aortic diameter
Measurements are taken to assess the size of the abdominal aorta.
Iliac arteries
The iliac arteries may also be assessed as part of the aorto-iliac ultrasound examination.
Aneurysm detection
Ultrasound can identify enlargement of the abdominal aorta consistent with an aneurysm.
Surveillance measurements
Where an aneurysm is already known, ultrasound measurements may be used as part of ongoing surveillance when clinically advised.
Non-invasive imaging
The examination is performed using ultrasound and does not involve ionising radiation.
Why might an aortic ultrasound be requested?
An AAA ultrasound may be requested for screening, follow-up of a known aneurysm or because of an individual’s vascular history or risk factors.
Risk factors do not confirm the presence of an aneurysm, and whether screening is appropriate depends on the individual clinical circumstances.
What happens during an abdominal aortic ultrasound?
An AAA scan is a non-invasive ultrasound examination of the abdominal aorta and, where appropriate, the iliac arteries.
Clinical information
Relevant history and the reason for your aortic assessment are reviewed.
Abdominal ultrasound
Ultrasound gel is applied to the abdomen and the aorta is visualised using an ultrasound probe.
Measurements
Measurements are taken to assess the diameter of the aorta and relevant vessels.
Findings
The ultrasound findings are documented to support the appropriate clinical pathway.
What can an aortic ultrasound show?
The scan provides measurements of the abdominal aorta and can identify whether the vessel is enlarged.
Where an aneurysm is identified, its size is an important part of the clinical information used to determine appropriate follow-up or specialist review.
Ultrasound findings should be considered alongside the wider clinical picture and any recommendations from your healthcare professional.
Private abdominal aortic aneurysm scan price
Private ultrasound assessment of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries is available from our Central London clinic.
If you are unsure whether an AAA scan or another vascular examination is appropriate, contact Tunica Diagnostics before booking.
A routine private AAA ultrasound is not an emergency service. If you develop sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse, fainting, severe weakness or other symptoms requiring urgent medical attention, seek emergency care immediately rather than waiting for a private ultrasound appointment.
Private abdominal aortic aneurysm scans in Central London
Tunica Diagnostics provides specialist aortic and iliac ultrasound from our vascular diagnostic clinic on Charing Cross Road.
Our service is available for patients requiring private abdominal aortic aneurysm assessment, AAA screening or ultrasound surveillance where appropriate.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound FAQs
Common questions about private AAA screening, aortic ultrasound and aneurysm assessment.
What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the abdominal aorta, the major artery that carries blood through the abdomen.
What is an AAA ultrasound scan?
An AAA ultrasound is a non-invasive scan used to visualise and measure the abdominal aorta. It can identify enlargement of the artery and can also be used for surveillance where appropriate.
Can ultrasound detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
Yes. Ultrasound can visualise the abdominal aorta and measure its diameter, allowing enlargement of the vessel to be identified.
How much does a private AAA scan cost?
At Tunica Diagnostics, an abdominal aorta and iliac artery ultrasound is £150.
Does an AAA scan use radiation?
No. Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves and does not use ionising radiation.
Is an abdominal aortic ultrasound painful?
The examination is non-invasive. Ultrasound gel is applied to the abdomen and an ultrasound probe is moved over the area being assessed. Some pressure may be used to obtain suitable images.
Can an AAA exist without symptoms?
Yes. Abdominal aortic aneurysms may not cause obvious symptoms, which is one reason they can be detected through screening or imaging performed for another reason.
Can an existing aneurysm be monitored with ultrasound?
Ultrasound measurements may be used as part of surveillance of a known abdominal aortic aneurysm when this has been clinically recommended.
Where can I have a private AAA scan in London?
Tunica Diagnostics provides private abdominal aortic aneurysm and iliac artery ultrasound from 111 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DT.
Book a private AAA ultrasound
Arrange a specialist abdominal aortic and iliac ultrasound at our Central London vascular diagnostic clinic.