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Updated: Feb 5, 2026

Porcine Model of Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Published on: November 21, 2019
What is the Utility of Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Diagnosing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
Kristine Jeffers1, Samuel M Keim2, Brit Long3
1Department of Emergency Medicine Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas.
Background:
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a high-risk condition that can be associated with morbidity and mortality if untreated. Ultrasound is a primary means of diagnosis.
Clinical Question:
What is the utility of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for diagnosing AAA?
Evidence Review:
Studies retrieved included 4 systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluating the use of POCUS for diagnosing AAA. These studies provide estimates of the potential utility of POCUS, with a sensitivity of 97.5 to 100% and specificity of 94.1 to 100%.
Conclusion:
Based upon the available literature, POCUS by emergency clinicians can reliably diagnose AAA.
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