Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening for Male Smokers — Why an Abdominal Ultrasound Matters
At Wisteria Imaging, we’re committed to helping patients access high-quality preventive care through advanced imaging services in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. One important service we provide is abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening using ultrasound, especially for those at higher risk — such as male smokers.
What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a swelling or balloon-like bulge in the aorta — the largest artery in the body that carries blood from your heart through your abdomen. AAAs often develop slowly and silently. Most people don’t feel symptoms until the aneurysm becomes large or ruptures, which can be life-threatening.
Who Is at Risk?
Certain factors increase your risk of developing an AAA. The most significant include:
Male sex
Age 65–75 years
History of smoking — even if you’ve quit (defined as an “ever smoker”)
Family history of aneurysms
Other vascular risk factors such as high blood pressure or heart disease
Among these, smoking remains one of the strongest predictors of AAA. That’s why targeted screening is so important.
Why Screening Matters
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends a one-time abdominal ultrasound screening for AAA in men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked. This is a Grade B recommendation — meaning there is substantial evidence that screening this group leads to earlier detection and reduced AAA-related deaths.
Screening offers major advantages:
Detect aneurysms before symptoms occur
Reduce the risk of rupture, which carries high mortality once it happens
Inform timely clinical follow-up and interventions
Most importantly, ultrasound screening is non-invasive, painless, and radiation-free.
How the Screening Works
During an AAA ultrasound:
You’ll lie comfortably while a technician applies a safe, cool gel to your belly.
A small handheld ultrasound probe glides over the gel.
Sound waves create real-time images of your abdominal aorta.
Your healthcare provider reviews the images and a radiologist interprets them for your physician.
The process takes only about 10–15 minutes and you can leave immediately afterward. It’s quick, comfortable, and doesn’t require any special preparation.
What Do the Results Mean?
No aneurysm detected — great news! You’ll likely return to routine care.
Small aneurysm found — we may recommend ongoing imaging to monitor its size over time.
Larger aneurysm — your physician may refer you to a vascular specialist to discuss treatment options.
Early detection means closer monitoring and better outcomes. Regular imaging can track aneurysm growth so that intervention happens before significant risk of rupture.
Why Choose Wisteria Imaging for AAA Screening
At Wisteria Imaging Institute, we offer:
High-quality ultrasound services interpreted by board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologists
A comfortable, patient-focused experience in Wyncote, PA
Value-based preventive imaging, including abdominal aortic ultrasound exams
Same-day scheduling options and fast turnaround of results
Preventive imaging — like AAA screening — is a key part of staying proactive about your health. If you’re a male smoker or former smoker aged 65–75, talk to your physician about whether AAA screening is right for you. And when it comes time for imaging, Wisteria Imaging is here to help.
Schedule Your Ultrasound Today
Take control of your vascular health. To learn more about abdominal aortic aneurysm screening or to schedule your ultrasound exam, visit us at Wisteria Imaging or call our team — we’re here to support your wellness journey every step of the way.