POCUS Made Easy: AAA
AAA scan is useful to look for a ruptured or leaking abdominal aortic aneurysm
- Scan aorta transversely from diaphragm to bifurcation.
- Save images at level of maximum diameter.
- AAA defined as >3cm AP diameter
Pre-reading
1. Aorta Transverse View
- Labelled AORTA TRANS
- Measurement of AP diameter
- OUTER to OUTER wall
2. Aorta Long View
- Labelled AORTA LONG
- Measurement of AP diameter
- OUTER to OUTER wall
Image Sets
- Minimum 2 Still Images
- 2-4 images
- Optional extra views- Proximal + Distal
Machine Settings
- CURVILINEAR Probe
- ABDO setting for all images
- Penetration mode for obese/ gassy patients (as well as graded compression)
Documentation – POCUS AAA
- Views: Adequate/ Inadequate
- Findings: Negative / AAA (+/- thrombus)
Anatomical views
Positive Findings (always consider clinical context)
References and Further reading
Bendigo ED Resource PDF – AAA
Clinical Cases
- Ultrasound Case 060
- Ultrasound Case 059
- Ultrasound Case 058
- Ultrasound Case 057
- Ultrasound Case 056
- Ultrasound Case 055
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POCUS
made easy
MBChB FACEM CCPU. Emergency Physician at Bendigo Hospital and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria. Australia.
I studied in Scotland before completing my Emergency Medicine training in Melbourne. I have a big interest in point-of-care ultrasound use and training in Emergency Medicine. I'm also interested in Choosing Wisely and sustainability initiatives in healthcare.
In my free time you'll find me playing tennis and soccer, or heading outdoors on camping trips.