Abdominal Aorta & Aortoiliac Ultrasound in New Jersey
Universal Ultrasound Diagnostics provides ultrasound evaluation of the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries in Flemington, New Jersey. This noninvasive vascular study can assess vessel size and blood flow and help identify abnormalities such as abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), plaque, narrowing, or obstruction when clinically indicated.
Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain, especially together with lightheadedness or fainting. These can be signs of a rapidly expanding or ruptured aneurysm. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
What is an abdominal aortic ultrasound?
It uses ultrasound to visualize the abdominal aorta, the body's main artery, and measure its size. When the iliac arteries are included, Doppler can also assess blood flow into the pelvis and lower extremities.
What does the exam evaluate?
Preparation
Fasting is typically required for 4 to 8 hours before this exam, since abdominal gas can limit how clearly the aorta and iliac arteries can be visualized.
A clear, gas-free path gives the sonographer a sharper view of the vessels, which helps produce an accurate study.
What happens during the exam?
A credentialed technologist applies ultrasound gel and images the abdominal aorta and, when ordered, the iliac arteries, using grayscale imaging alongside Doppler to assess vessel size and blood flow.
Gel & positioning
Ultrasound gel is applied and you're positioned comfortably for imaging of the abdomen.
Aortic & iliac imaging
The technologist images the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries, following our accredited protocol.
Doppler flow assessment
Doppler measurements evaluate blood flow and help identify narrowing or obstruction when present.
Areas examined, timing & results
What areas are examined?
Imaging covers the abdominal aorta and, when ordered, the iliac arteries, following our accredited protocol and the exact study requested by your clinician.
How long does the exam take?
Typically 45 minutes.
What happens after the ultrasound?
Reports are sent directly to your doctor quickly and securely.
Stat results are provided immediately, routine results within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the abdominal aorta. Ultrasound is commonly used to measure the aorta and can be used for screening or surveillance when ordered.
What are the iliac arteries?
They are major arteries that branch from the lower abdominal aorta and carry blood toward the pelvis and legs.
Can one ultrasound evaluate both the aorta and iliac arteries?
Yes, when the ordered protocol includes both regions.
Do I need to fast?
Yes — see the Preparation section above for fasting guidelines and why a clear view matters for this exam.
Do I need an order?
Policy varies by insurance-billed versus self-pay testing: you don't need a physician order if you're self-pay testing, you'll need an order if you go through insurance, with appropriate CPT code and symptomatology ICD 10 code
Schedule Aortic / Aortoiliac Ultrasound
Schedule online or call/text our Flemington office. If you have emergency symptoms, call 911.