Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound Scan

Price From – £79

An aorta ultrasound scan is a safe, non-invasive test that uses sound waves to produce real-time images of the abdominal aorta, the body’s main blood vessel. It is most commonly used to detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) — a swelling or enlargement of the aorta that often has no symptoms but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Although the NHS AAA screening programme routinely offers this test to men aged 65, private scans are also valuable for both men and women of all ages, particularly those with risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or family history of aneurysm.

For more information visit: nhs.uk/aaa-screening

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What This Scan Includes

  • Detailed ultrasound examination of the size of the abdominal aorta
  • Assessment for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) or narrowing
  • Measurement of aortic diameter
  • Digital images securely available to download for your records
  • Digital and printed report provided on the same day
  • Guidance if further medical follow-up is recommended
  • Performed by NHS-experienced sonographers registered with HCPC in a CQC regulated clinic

This scan may benefit:

  • Men above 65 years (especially with a history of smoking) seeking AAA screening
  • First-degree relatives of patients with a known AAA
  • Men and women with known risk factors including smoking, hypertension, or atherosclerosis
  • Those with a pulsatile abdominal mass, or unexplained abdominal, back, or flank pain, especially older patients
  • Patients requiring surveillance and monitoring of a known AAA for size and growth
  • Anyone advised by their GP or specialist to check for AAA

For a more comprehensive check-up, men may wish to combine this scan with a Prostate, Kidney & Bladder (PKB) scan, while both men and women can combine it with a Kidney & Bladder Scan, Abdominal Scan, or a Blood Test Package to create a complete health check.

You will be asked to lie comfortably on your back while a sonographer applies a water-based gel to your abdomen. The ultrasound probe is then gently moved across the skin to capture detailed images of the aorta.

The examination is completely painless and typically takes around 15-20 minutes. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly to obtain the clearest possible views. No sedation or special preparation is required in most cases.

  • No specific preparation is required, though in some cases you may be asked to fast for 4-6 hours before your appointment for clearer images
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen

An aorta ultrasound scan is one of the most effective ways to detect vascular problems early. It can identify abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) or changes in the vessel wall long before symptoms appear. Because most aneurysms are silent until they become very large, ultrasound provides essential reassurance for people at risk.

Detecting an aneurysm at an early stage allows for monitoring and referral before complications occur. For patients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking history, or a family history of aneurysm, this scan can form a key part of maintaining long-term vascular health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Before Your Appointment

No specific preparation is usually needed. In some cases you may be asked to fast for 4-6 hours beforehand for clearer images. Wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen.

During Your Appointment

A water-based gel is applied to your abdomen and the sonographer gently moves the ultrasound probe across the skin to examine the aorta. The scan is completely painless and takes around 15-20 minutes.

After Your Appointment

You will receive a same-day digital and printed report. If any abnormality is identified, your sonographer will advise on next steps and recommend you share your report with your GP or vascular specialist promptly.

Important Disclaimer

This scan is designed to assess the abdominal aorta for aneurysms or narrowing. It does not replace a full vascular consultation or broader cardiovascular assessment.

If an abnormality is found, we recommend you share your report with your GP or vascular specialist immediately.

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