Catastrophes of Abdominal Aorta: Sonographic Evaluation

Although ultrasound has a limited role in the emergent evaluation of the aorta, it still has a significant role in screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and for monitoring after endovascular repair. Awareness of the sonographic features of AAA, AAA rupture, and aortic dissection helps identify the problem and enables timely follow-up and management in these emergent cases. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound potentially has a significant role in assessment of these emergent conditions of the abdominal aorta, but because of the urgency involved, CT often is preferred over ultrasound.