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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
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An Approach to Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms in Western Australia.
E A Nicholls1, P E Norman, M M Lawrence-Brown
1Department of Surgery, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Surgery
|February 23, 2010
Summary
Community ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) detected 33 cases in 1225 individuals aged 60-80. This feasible screening method identified significant AAA prevalence, especially in men.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Public Health Screening
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are a significant cause of mortality.
- Early detection through screening can improve patient outcomes.
- Understanding AAA prevalence in diverse populations is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and public reception of community-based ultrasound screening for AAA.
- To determine the prevalence of AAA in men and women aged 60-80 years.
- To identify risk factors associated with AAA in the screened population.
Main Methods:
- A 6-month screening program involving 1225 men and women aged 60-80 years.
- Ultrasound examinations conducted at various community venues.
- Data collection on AAA detection, size, and associated risk factors.
Main Results:
- Screening was well-received and logistically simple.
- Thirty-three AAA (30-81 mm) were detected.
- Prevalence of AAA > 30 mm was 4.7% in men and 0.35% in women; > 50 mm was 0.6% in men and 0.17% in women.
- Cigarette smoking was a significant risk factor; hypertension and diabetes were not.
Conclusions:
- Community-based ultrasound screening for AAA is feasible and practical.
- High prevalence rates of AAA were observed in the target population.
- Screening programs can effectively identify individuals with AAA in community settings.
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