Proximal abdominal aorta
Assesses the upper abdominal segment of the aorta below the diaphragm where it can be visualised.
Skip to main content
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
01
02
03
04
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Book your scan
Book AAA scan — £219
Focused vascular ultrasound • AAA assessment
Private abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) ultrasound scan
A focused, radiation-free ultrasound assessment of the abdominal aorta to measure its maximum diameter and look for aneurysmal enlargement, with visible aorto-iliac vessels assessed where clinically appropriate.
- No GP referral required
- Central London & St Albans
- Report and relevant images
Focused aortic assessment
Abdominal aorta
Maximum diameter
Aortic contour
Common iliac arteries
Doppler flow
Interval comparison
£219Current listed scan price
Focused assessmentAbdominal aorta and visible aorto-iliac vessels
Approx. 15–25 minMay vary with visualisation and findings
Self-referralNo GP referral normally required
Two clinicsCentral London and St Albans
What does an AAA ultrasound scan check?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm scan uses ultrasound to visualise and measure the abdominal aorta. It can show whether the vessel is within the expected calibre or is enlarged. In the NHS screening pathway, an abdominal aorta measuring 3.0 cm or more is classified as an aneurysm, with follow-up determined by its size and clinical context. A routine private scan does not replace emergency assessment for sudden severe symptoms.
Scan coverage
What the abdominal aorta ultrasound assesses
The examination is centred on accurate visualisation and measurement of the abdominal aorta, with additional vascular views obtained when relevant and technically possible.
Mid abdominal aorta
Reviews the central aortic segment for calibre, contour and visible focal dilatation.
Distal abdominal aorta
Examines the lower aorta towards its division into the right and left common iliac arteries.
Maximum aortic diameter
Records the maximum visible aortic measurement using standard transverse and longitudinal imaging planes.
Aneurysm shape and extent
Describes visible enlargement, its location and whether the dilatation appears focal or more extended.
Common iliac arteries
Assesses the visible proximal common iliac arteries for calibre and continuity where acoustic access allows.
Doppler blood flow
Doppler may be used to assess visible flow and support evaluation of the aorta and related vessels.
Additional visible vessels
Other iliac or femoral arterial segments may be reviewed when included in the clinical protocol and technically accessible.
Follow-up comparison
Previous imaging measurements can be compared when surveillance has been recommended and reports are available.
Important scope: this is a focused abdominal aorta examination, not a full abdominal-organ scan. It does not assess the thoracic aorta or exclude aneurysms in the chest, brain or other arteries. Bowel gas and body habitus can limit views, and CT or MRI may be required.
Who may benefit
When an AAA ultrasound may be appropriate
Most abdominal aortic aneurysms cause no symptoms. Assessment is commonly considered because of age, vascular risk, family history, an incidental finding or a clinician’s recommendation.
Age-related risk
Risk rises with age and is highest in people assigned male at birth aged 65 and over.
Smoking history
Current or previous smoking is an important risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Family history
A parent, sibling or child with an AAA may increase the reason to discuss assessment with a clinician.
Cardiovascular risk
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, coronary disease or peripheral arterial disease may be relevant.
Pulsing abdominal sensation
A persistent pulsating feeling or suspected abdominal pulsatile mass should be medically assessed.
Persistent abdominal or back pain
Non-sudden symptoms may require clinical review and imaging, although many other conditions can cause them.
Incidental enlargement
Follow-up may be requested after an enlarged aorta is seen on another ultrasound, CT or MRI examination.
Outside routine NHS screening
Adults not routinely invited to the NHS programme may seek clinical advice about private assessment where risk is higher.
Before your appointment
How to prepare for an abdominal aorta ultrasound
Preparation can affect how clearly the aorta is seen, so follow the instructions supplied with your booking.
Check your confirmation
Read the clinic’s preparation instructions carefully because requirements may vary according to the examination protocol.
Fast if instructed
You may be asked not to eat for around six hours to reduce bowel gas. Clear fluids may be permitted as stated in your confirmation.
Medication and diabetes
Continue essential medicines unless advised otherwise. Contact the clinic before fasting if you have diabetes or another condition affected by fasting.
Bring previous imaging
Bring prior ultrasound, CT or MRI reports and details of cardiovascular diagnoses, surgery, medication and family history.
What happens
Your AAA ultrasound appointment step by step
The examination is external and usually straightforward, but extra time may be needed when visualisation is technically difficult.
- 1
Clinical history and consent
The practitioner confirms the reason for the scan, relevant risk factors, previous vascular imaging, symptoms and the planned examination.
- 2
External abdominal ultrasound
You lie on your back with the abdomen exposed. Water-based gel is applied and the probe is moved over the abdomen.
- 3
Aortic measurements
The aorta is viewed in longitudinal and transverse planes, and its maximum visible diameter is recorded. Doppler may be added where appropriate.
- 4
Explanation and written report
The main observations are usually explained after the scan, followed by a written report and relevant images within the clinic’s stated reporting timeframe.
Safety information
Know when a routine scan is not appropriate
An AAA can be life-threatening if it leaks or ruptures. Emergency symptoms must not be delayed by waiting for an outpatient private ultrasound.
Call 999 for possible rupture symptoms
Call 999 immediately for sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse, fainting, pale or clammy skin, marked breathlessness or loss of consciousness. Do not drive yourself to hospital.
Persistent symptoms need clinical assessment
Ongoing or recurrent abdominal or back pain, or a pulsating abdominal lump, should be assessed by a GP or appropriate urgent service even when a routine scan is booked.
A significant finding needs vascular follow-up
An aneurysm measuring 5.5 cm or more, rapid interval growth, concerning symptoms or another significant vascular abnormality requires prompt specialist vascular assessment.
CT or MRI may be needed
Cross-sectional imaging may be required when ultrasound views are incomplete, anatomy is complex, symptoms are acute or treatment planning is being considered.
Why PrivateSono
Accessible private abdominal aorta ultrasound
Self-referral appointments are available at our Central London and St Albans clinics, with focused aortic measurements, written reporting and recommendations based on the findings.
View appointments — £219Self-referral
Book directly without waiting for a GP referral.
Focused measurement
The abdominal aorta is assessed in standard imaging planes.
Vascular ultrasound
Doppler and additional vessel views are used where appropriate.
Clear reporting
Receive a written ultrasound report with relevant images.
Two locations
Choose Central London or St Albans.
Clear escalation
Significant findings are accompanied by appropriate follow-up advice.
Clinic locations
AAA ultrasound in London and St Albans
Select your preferred clinic and available appointment through the online booking page.
Central London
27 Welbeck Street
London, W1G 8EN — close to the Harley Street and Marylebone medical district.
Book Central LondonSt Albans
54–56 Victoria Street
St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3HZ — conveniently located near the city centre and station.
Book St AlbansPatient questions
Abdominal aortic aneurysm scan FAQs
These answers explain who the scan is for, preparation, measurements, limitations and emergency safety advice.
Still unsure? Call 020 7101 3377What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound scan?
It is an external ultrasound examination that visualises and measures the abdominal aorta, the main artery passing through the abdomen. The scan looks for abnormal enlargement or aneurysmal dilatation and may assess visible aorto-iliac vessels where clinically appropriate.
Who may consider a private AAA ultrasound scan?
A scan may be considered by adults with relevant risk factors, a family history, a previously documented aortic enlargement, or a clinical recommendation for assessment. The NHS population screening programme routinely invites people assigned male at birth in the year they turn 65 because this group has the highest risk.
How much does the PrivateSono AAA ultrasound scan cost?
The PrivateSono abdominal aortic aneurysm ultrasound scan is listed at £219. Check the booking page for current appointment availability before confirming.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. PrivateSono accepts self-referrals. Bring details of symptoms, cardiovascular history, smoking history, medication, family history and any previous ultrasound, CT or MRI reports where available.
How should I prepare for the scan?
Follow the instructions in your booking confirmation. To improve visualisation of the aorta, you may be asked not to eat for around six hours before the appointment while continuing clear fluids and essential medicines as directed. Contact the clinic before fasting if you have diabetes or another medical condition affected by fasting.
Is an AAA ultrasound painful or harmful?
The scan is external, non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation. Most people find it comfortable, although firm probe pressure may cause temporary discomfort over a tender abdomen.
What do the aortic measurements mean?
In the NHS screening pathway, an aorta below 3.0 cm is not classified as an aneurysm. A small AAA measures 3.0 to 4.4 cm, a medium AAA 4.5 to 5.4 cm, and a large AAA 5.5 cm or more. Management must be decided by an appropriate clinician or vascular service.
Can ultrasound show whether an aneurysm has ruptured?
A routine outpatient ultrasound must not be used to rule out a leaking or ruptured aneurysm. Sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse, fainting, pale or clammy skin, or breathing difficulty requires an immediate 999 emergency response.
How long does the scan take and when will I receive the report?
A focused examination commonly takes around 15 to 25 minutes, although difficult visualisation or additional vascular views may take longer. The main observations are usually explained after the examination, followed by a written report and relevant images within the clinic’s stated reporting timeframe.
What are the limitations of an AAA ultrasound scan?
Bowel gas, body habitus, tenderness and deep vessel position can limit ultrasound views. The scan does not assess the thoracic aorta or exclude aneurysms elsewhere in the body, and CT or MRI may be required for detailed anatomy, treatment planning or urgent assessment.
Book online
Arrange your private AAA ultrasound scan
Choose Central London or St Albans and view current appointment times. The scan is listed at £219 and no GP referral is normally required.
Choose location and appointment
Call the booking team
For sudden severe abdominal or back pain, collapse or fainting, call 999 rather than booking a routine scan.
Private vascular ultrasound
Book a focused abdominal aorta and AAA assessment
Appointments in Central London and St Albans • £219 • Self-referral available