Abdominal aortic aneurysm physical examination

Associate Editor-In-Chief:

Physical Examination

 * The physical examination may miss a substantial number of asymptomatic AAAs
 * The abdominal aorta should be checked during regular physical examinations because it is easy to do and may detect a life-threatening aneurysm.
 * The sensitivity of physical examination increases with the size of the aneurysm:
 * 29-61% for AAAs 3.0-3.9 cm in diameter
 * 76-82% for those AAAs 5.0 cm or larger
 * Generally, 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 AAAs is safe, and does not precipitate rupture.

Acknowledgements
The content on this page was first contributed by: C. Michael Gibson M.S., M.D.