Aorta Duplex Scan

An Aorta Duplex Scan is a test which utilizes sound waves to image the aorta (main blood vessel leading away from the heart). The size of the aorta is measured during this test. Your physician may order this test due to a known or suspected aneurysm (a weak area in the wall of the artery that expands or bulges).

Prep:  Do not eat or drink after midnight the day before the test. Do not smoke or chew gum. If you are diabetic, you may have a light breakfast and take your insulin. You should take your medications with small sips of water.

What to Expect:  You will be asked to remove your clothing above the waist and will be given a gown to wear. You will be asked to lie on your back and may be asked to change positions during the testing. Utilizing a probe, the technologist will scan your abdomen to obtain different views of your aorta.

The test will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. You may resume your normal activities following the test.