Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination
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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Microchapters |
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Differentiating Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm from other Diseases |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination On the Web |
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Directions to Hospitals Treating Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination |
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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]
Overview
Physical examination has a low sensitivity in the detection of small abdominal aortic aneurysms (29-61% for abdominal aortic aneurysms 3.0-3.9 cm in diameter) but has a sensitivity of 76-82% to detect those abdominal aortic aneurysms that are 5.0 cm or larger that may warrant repair. 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 abdominal aortic aneurysms is safe, and does not precipitate rupture.
Physical Examination
Abdomen
Palpation
A palpable abdominal mass may be
Auscultation
Abdominal bruits can be present in case of renal or visceral arterial stenosis.