Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Study of Choice
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Electrocardiogram
X-ray
Echocardiography and Ultrasound
CT scan
MRI
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Case Studies
Case #1
Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination
CDC on Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination
Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination in the news
Blogs on Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination
Directions to Hospitals Treating Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination
Risk calculators and risk factors for Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2]

Physical Examination

• The physical examination may miss a substantial number of asymptomatic AAAs
• The abdominal aorta should be checked during regular physical examinations because it is easy to do and may detect a life-threatening aneurysm.
• The sensitivity of physical examination increases with the size of the aneurysm:

  • 29-61% for AAAs 3.0-3.9 cm in diameter
  • 76-82% for those AAAs 5.0 cm or larger

• Generally, it is easier to detect a pulsatile mass in thin patients and those who do not have tense abdomens.
• Contrary to popular belief, gentle palpation of AAAs is safe, and does not precipitate rupture.