Abdominal Exam

Abdominal Aortic-Iliac Duplex, this ultrasound examination uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to examine the aorta, the main artery in the abdomen, and its branch arteries, which provide blood flow to the many vital organs throughout the body. The iliac arteries in the lower abdomen are also evaluated during this procedure. This ultrasound-based diagnostic examination that can detect any medical issues influencing blood flow in the pelvis, legs, or feet.

The Abdominal Vascular Duplex/Ultrasound is usually indicated for the diagnosis of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA). The large vessel known as the aorta runs deep and vertically down the abdomen supplying blood flow to vital organs as well as to each leg. Occasionally, this vessel wall may weaken and dilate causing an aneurysm. In contrast, the artery may be narrow causing a stricture which reduces blood flow to the organs and legs. During the abdominal vascular exam, renal and mesenteric artery visualization may indicate narrowing or blockage of these smaller vessels as well. Using high frequency sound waves with doppler ultrasound, we can create two-dimensional pictures, wave forms, and velocities for the diagnosis of AAA or stenosis. Although an abdominal aortic aneurysm may be asymptomatic, some patients feel a pulsating abdominal mass and pain in the abdomen, back or flank region.

Common risk factors for AAA are male gender, white race, age greater than 65, smoking, and family history. The size and severity of dilation will determine the treatment plan prescribed by your vascular surgeon.

Renal Arterial Doppler/Ultrasound can use high-frequency sound waves to determine how much blood is flowing into and out of the kidneys and how well they are working. The renal arteries provide the kidneys with blood. Renal artery disease, such as atherosclerosis-induced narrowing (stenosis), may decrease kidney blood flow. Moreover, this can lead to an increase in blood pressure. High blood pressure (Hypertension) is most commonly caused by renal artery stenosis, which can be treated. Renal artery disease that has gone untreated for a long time can potentially lead to kidney failure. Your doctor may recommend this check if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure to assess whether or not there is a constriction in the blood arteries that lead to each kidney from the aorta.