Aortic Ultrasound
An ultrasound of the aorta is a non-invasive test that produces images of the aorta, the largest artery in the human body, through the use of high-frequency sound waves.
The aorta is the largest and arguably most important blood vessel in the body; it ascends from the left ventricle and is the main avenue for oxygenated blood to reach all parts of the body.
Ultrasound imaging can be very useful in assessing the condition of the aorta. The sound waves utilized in scanning the aorta can give very detailed information concerning the blood flow and quality of musculature surrounding this vital tissue. In fact, the speed at which the blood is flowing through the very beginning of the aorta can reveal the heart's condition as well.
The Purpose of an Aortic Ultrasound
Examples of issues exposed by ultrasound of the aorta are:
- Plaque build up (atherosclerosis)
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm diagnosis and monitor
- Blockages of blood flow
Ultrasound is distinct from other imaging techniques such as X-Rays or MRIs in that the patient and doctor can both observe results as the readings are taken. This active form of imaging can greatly relax the patient and provide an overall more beneficial visit. It is also completely non-invasive, requiring no lead shielding or loud machinery to perform. However, ultrasound is restricted to the imaging of the larger blood vessels so very little detail outside of the aorta will be discernible.
The Aortic Ultrasound Procedure
The procedure requires a soft gel to be spread across the area to be observed which will help the sound waves travel between the machine and the body. The actual imaging itself is completely painless, but if the area to be imaged was tender beforehand, some discomfort may ensue.