Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screenings
An AAA is the result of weakness or thinning of the aorta’s vessel wall. This weakness allows the vessel to balloon abnormally. If the vessel ruptures, it can be fatal, which is why screening is so important.
The screening is a simple, non-invasive ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to produce an image of the aorta and look for ballooning in the vessel.
Who should be screened?
The risk factors include:
- Family history of AAA
- Being male, 65-75 years old, and smoking at least 100 cigarettes in your life
If you have either of the risk factors above, you should talk to your primary care provider about getting an AAA screening. Medicare and Medicare Part B patients may have a one-time screening performed at no cost; find out if you’re eligible.
How do I schedule a screening?
Your primary care provider will need to refer you for an AAA screening. Your provider will contact Memorial Hospital Belleville or Memorial Hospital Shiloh to let them know you need this exam, then you will receive a call from Centralized Scheduling to schedule your appointment.
Do you have a pulsing in your abdomen?
Find out if you’re at risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm.