AAA Ultrasound Bellingham WA

AAA Ultrasound

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening in Bellingham, WA

An AAA ultrasound is a safe, painless imaging test used to detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). At Peace Arch Cardiovascular, we provide advanced vascular ultrasound imaging to help identify aneurysms early—before they become life-threatening.

The abdominal aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body. If the vessel wall weakens, it can begin to bulge outward, forming an aneurysm. When an aneurysm grows too large, it may rupture, which can cause severe internal bleeding. Early detection through an AAA ultrasound screening allows physicians to monitor the condition and recommend treatment when necessary.

Our experienced cardiovascular team uses high-resolution ultrasound technology to evaluate the abdominal aorta quickly and accurately.

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What Is an AAA Ultrasound?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of the abdominal aorta. The test allows your provider to measure the size of the artery and detect any abnormal enlargement.

Because ultrasound imaging does not use radiation, it is considered one of the safest and most effective methods for screening and monitoring abdominal aneurysms.

This test is often recommended for patients who have risk factors such as:

  • Age 65 or older
  • A history of smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • A family history of aneurysms
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries)

Why AAA Screening Is Important

Abdominal aortic aneurysms often develop slowly and may not cause symptoms until they become large or rupture. Routine screening can detect aneurysms early, allowing doctors to monitor them and intervene before complications occur.

Benefits of early detection include:

  • Preventing aneurysm rupture
  • Monitoring aneurysm growth over time
  • Planning appropriate treatment when necessary
  • Reducing the risk of life-threatening complications

Screening is particularly important for individuals who are at increased risk due to age or cardiovascular health history.

What to Expect During the Test

An AAA ultrasound is a quick and comfortable procedure that typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.

During the exam:

  • You will lie comfortably on an exam table.
  • A technician will apply a small amount of gel to the abdomen.
  • A handheld ultrasound device (transducer) is moved over the area.
  • Sound waves create real-time images of the abdominal aorta.

The test is painless and requires no needles or incisions. In most cases, patients can return to normal activities immediately after the exam.

Your physician will review the results and discuss whether further monitoring or treatment is needed.

When Your Doctor May Recommend an AAA Ultrasound

Your provider may recommend this screening if you:

  • Are a man age 65–75 with a history of smoking
  • Have a family history of abdominal aneurysm
  • Experience unexplained abdominal or back pain
  • Have vascular disease or high blood pressure

For patients who have already been diagnosed with a small aneurysm, ultrasound imaging is commonly used to monitor changes over time.

AAA Ultrasound at Peace Arch Cardiovascular

At Peace Arch Cardiovascular in Bellingham, WA, we focus on early detection and prevention of serious cardiovascular conditions. Our vascular imaging services help physicians diagnose issues quickly and guide effective treatment plans.

Patients choose our practice for:

  • Advanced diagnostic imaging technology
  • Experienced cardiovascular specialists
  • Compassionate, patient-focused care
  • Accurate and timely results

If you are at risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm or have been referred for screening, our team is here to provide trusted care.

Peace Arch Cardiovascular
1344 King Street, Suite 104
Bellingham, WA 98229
Phone: (360) 594-4002

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