The most common emergency test for aortic aneurysm involves a computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest, and possibly abdomen and pelvis,. Business, Economics, and Finance. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the part of your aorta that runs through your belly. Chest X-ray. Maximal ascending aortic. His recent paper was published in the American Journal of Cardiology. One, in the chest, is a thoracic aortic aneurysm. Your two carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck. Treatment of dissecting aneurysms of aorta without surgery. 1 Consider cardiopulmonary exercise testing when assessing people for elective repair of an asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), if it will assist in shared decision making. Objectives: Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in a hostile neck has been associated with adverse outcomes. An aneurysm occurs when part of an artery wall weakens, allowing it to abnormally balloon out or widen. 10 Risk factors include hypertension, increasing age, tobacco use, atherosclerosis, and congenital lesions (eg, bicuspid aortic valve and aortic coarctation). Screening for aortic aneurysms. John A. 08. Feel your skin to see if it's clammy. By Daniel Reynen Citizen Health Columnist; Dec 16, 2021 Dec 16, 2021; Facebook; Twitter;Thumb palm test for aortic aneurysm. S. However, the symptoms may be vague, and the abdominal mass may be missed. “Only a minority of patients with aneurysms have a positive test,” said Dr. One, in the chest, is a thoracic aortic aneurysm. Rabenstein AP, Bilfinger TV, Loh S, McLarty AJ: Extra-anatomic aortic bypass. . Max Gomez reports. Screening for aortic aneurysm is usually done using ultrasound. The threshold for surgery is still a subject of debate but varies between 5. There are several causes of aneurysm dilatation such as direct trauma, chronic infections, acute infections, inflammatory. 1. True aneurysm of a thumb digital artery in a radiographer: a case report. An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the aorta, the main blood vessel that ferries blood from the heart throughout the chest and the rest of the body. Spirometry is safe as. 5 cm or greater in diameter. Surgery is typically reserved for aortic aneurysms that are 5. S. In other words, the majority of aneurysm patients do not manifest a positive thumb-palm sign, but patients who do have a positive sign have a very high likelihood of harboring an ascending aneurysm. Abdominal aortic aneurysms are the easiest type to identify and follow, Brown says. The aorta is the largest artery in the body, transporting freshly oxygenated blood from the heart towards the awaiting cells. Sound waves are used to show how blood flows through the structures in the belly area, including the aorta. A simple “thumb palm test” may indicate whether someone has an ascending aortic aneurysm, or a potentially fatal ballooning of a large artery in the heart, researchers say, suggesting the test be. 5 preventive health screenings: Carotid Artery Disease, PAD, AAA, Afib, Osteporosis. That is to say, a positive test implies a substantial likelihood of harboring an ascending aortic aneurysm. Thumb test for aneurysm. Elefteriades says aortic aneurysms are more common than we used to think, and they can happen with no warning. Jane Fonda Shares Her Perspective on Aging and Her Secrets for Staying Young at Heart. The outcomes can help your medical professional figure out a treatment to decrease your stroke danger. If the thumb crosses beyond the far edge of the flat. , tall stature with. Dr. 114-116, 10. They kill about 10,000 people each year and affect adults of all ages. A simple thumb test can help indicate whether a person is harboring a hidden aortic aneurysm — which can prove fatal if left undetected and untreated, new research reveals. Common risk factors for AAA include advancing age, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension and the male gender. 5 times the normal diameter of 2. Abdominal aortic aneurysm affects approximately 4–7% of men and 1–2% of women over the age of 65 years. If you are unsure that you are at risk for having an aortic aneurysm, then you can do a thumb-palm test to determine whether you are at risk or not. Test midface stability—grasp upper incisors and move anteroposterior. Introduction. An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. They usually grow slowly. Heritable thoracic aortic diseases (HTAD) are rare pathologies associated with thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissection, which can be syndromic or non-syndromic. 1. It also can detect the presence of an aneurysm. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a swelling (aneurysm) of the aorta – the main blood vessel that leads away from the heart, down through the abdomen to the rest of the body. It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. 800. According to a Yale News report, aortic aneurysms are the 13 th most common cause of U. A simple "thumb palm test" may indicate whether someone has an ascending aortic aneurysm, or a potentially fatal ballooning of a large artery in the heart. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome [5] The clinical features discussed here are seen in all types of EDS , but their severity may vary and certain symptoms predominate depending on the. Lumbar puncture, known as a spinal tap. We will also discuss which types of endoleaks. That is to say, a positive test implies a substantial likelihood of harboring an ascending aortic aneurysm. These aneurysms are usually asymptomatic until they rupture which is a catastrophic complication. Thumb Test Aneurysm. Shortness of breath. A metal mesh tube on the end of the catheter is placed at the site of. If the aorta bursts, it can cause serious bleeding that can quickly lead to death. evidence review A: risk factors for predicting presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. It is estimated that an. Key factors to avoiding an aneurysm or preventing one from rupturing include monitoring your. If they burst, abdominal aortic aneurysms can be fatal. 2. Difficulty breathing. Most people with aneurysms will do great if the condition is found. Purpose To evaluate the use of aortic MR elastography (MRE)–derived AAA stiffness and stiffness ratio at baseline to identify the. Carotid arteries are generally narrowed by a buildup of plaque – composed of fat,. Now Elefteriades wants everyone to know about the simple test — especially anyone with a family history of aortic aneurysm or heart disease. 1016/j. The aorta is the largest artery. S. An aneurysm is an expansion or bulge of a blood vessel to more than 1. Marfan syndrome or Loeys-Dietz syndrome) or with. The other is in the abdomen and is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm. 5 Classic Exercises for Full-Body Fitness. Stress Test-Related Recommendations for the Timing of Valve Replacement, Diagnostic Evaluation, and Follow-Up in Patients With Asymptomatic, Severe Aortic Stenosis. A review of the relevant scientific publications, concerning the etiology, pathogeny, histology, and molecular markers is presented in this chapter. those with a positive family history. The bulge in the aorta happens when part of your blood vessel wall grows weak. 6%) with ascending aortic aneurysm as diagnosed by transesophageal echocardiography. Thumb test aneurysm. 2, 3 Randomized clinical trials. It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. Symptoms of a thoracic aortic aneurysm may include chest pain, back pain, neck or jaw pain, coughing, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing. 0 cm; the upper limit. Carotid (kuh-ROT-id) ultrasound is a safe, painless treatment that makes use of acoustic waves to check out the blood flow via the carotid arteries. If your thoracic aortic aneurysm is small, your health care provider may recommend medicine and imaging tests to watch the aneurysm. The aneurysm can burst completely, causing bleeding inside the body. An aortic aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart through the chest and torso. The test involves injecting dye that makes it easier to observe blood flow. . In people who have Marfan syndrome, this is most likely to happen at the aortic root — where the artery leaves your heart. 5%), meaning that many patients with disease will not be identified. [2] It occurs due to the intrinsic weakness of the aortic wall. Doctors use multiple tests to confirm a brain aneurysm diagnosis: MRA: A magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) scan is a type of MRI scan that's specifically for blood vessels. The test is quite simple: the patient holds their hand up and palm flat while bending their thumb over the palm as much as possible. The part of the aorta that passes through the belly area (abdominal aortic aneurysm). Pectus excavatum or chest asymmetry — 1. A long section of the aorta is involved. Ischemic stroke. 4% among people between 50 and 84 years of age, or 1. Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) refers to enlargement of the aorta by more than 50% of the normal diameter in segments between the aortic valve and aortic hiatus of the diaphragm (). A simple test of the thumb will help determine if someone is suffering from an aortic aneurysm that is hiddenthat could be fatal if not identified and untreated, a new study shows. Thumb test aneurysm. An ascending aortic root aneurysm procedure may be done in two ways. The thinner it is, the more likely it is to rupture, which is much like an over inflated balloon that is at high risk of popping. Mutations in several genes have been associated with an increased risk for aneurysm and dissection of the thoracic aorta and other major arteries. 4%. Feel your skin to see if it's clammy. 1-10 Population-based studies in men older than 60 years have. “Only a minority of patients with aneurysms have a positive test. S. Carotid arteries are generally narrowed by a build-up of plaque – comprised of. Pain in the chest, jaw, neck or arms. 1 It occurs when the abdominal aortic wall weakens, causing it to bulge or balloon. There are also rare, idiopathic cases. 6. A carotid ultrasound is performed to examine for tightened carotid arteries, which boost the danger of stroke. The thumb test has been recommended as a way of identifying ascending aortic aneurysms, the part of the blood vessel which comes out of the heart upwards. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as an aorta having a diameter of at least one and a-half times the normal diameter of the aorta at the level of the renal arteries [1]. Accuracy of the “thumb-palm test” for detection of ascending aortic aneurysm. A negative test does not exclude an aneurysm. Carotid (kuh-ROT-id) ultrasound is a secure, pain free procedure that uses acoustic waves to analyze the blood flow with the carotid arteries. It may be used to check for a number of conditions. 4%) and non-AscAA disease in 246 (80. • Avoid strenuous activities. Just stick out your hand like you're telling someone to stop, and then see how far your thumb can stretch across your palm. A Yale study has found that a self-conducted test involving the thumb and palm of one hand could help alert thousands of people each year to their risk of having a hidden aortic aneurysm. Aortic aneurysms are often diagnosed by a physical exam or an imaging test such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Tests. Although they do not normally pose a serious threat to health, theTests to diagnose an abdominal aortic aneurysm include: This is the most common test to diagnose abdominal aortic aneurysms. Introduction. Finding an aortic aneurysm before it ruptures offers your best chance of recovery. An AAA is a bulge in the part of your aorta that travels through your belly (abdominal aorta). However, the relevance of using angiotensin II induction model to. If you do, your provider will recommend additional ultrasounds at regular intervals (usually. According to a Yale News report, aortic aneurysms are the 13 th most common cause of U. Carotid (kuh-ROT-id) ultrasound is a risk-free, pain free procedure that makes use of sound waves to check out the blood circulation via the carotid arteries. As the tear extends along the wall of the aorta, blood can flow in between the layers of the blood vessel wall (dissection). Introduction. If you are unsure that you are at risk for having an aortic aneurysm, then you can do a thumb-palm test to determine whether you are at risk or not. Aneurysms can develop in several parts of the body, including: The body's main artery, called the aorta (aortic aneurysm). It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. To evaluate the impact of the technique at distal. Ischemic stroke. Get screened for a stroke and cardiovascular disease risk near by. The thumb-palm test is. 5 preventive health screenings: Carotid Artery Disease, PAD, AAA, Afib, Osteporosis. , 2016). It is a clinical test in which the tip of the thumb extends beyond the palm when the thumb is clasped in the clenched hand. 6%) (including CABG, valve repair, and descending aortic aneurysm). The diagnosis may be confused with renal calculus, diverticulitis, incarcerated hernia, or. Aortic. This buildup, called atherosclerosis, is among the leading sources of stroke. Thumb test for aortic aneurysms. 1,2 Aneurysms are usually asymptomatic until they rupture. According to a Yale News report, aortic aneurysms are the 13 th most common cause of U. Just stick out your hand like you’re telling someone to stop, and then see how far your thumb can stretch across your pa…Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA): Abdominal aortic aneurysms may form where your aorta carries blood into your abdomen (belly). One of the most common inherited disorders affecting connective tissue, Marfan syndrome (MFS), is an autosomal dominant condition with a reported incidence of 1 in 3000 to 5000 individuals. with one thumb pushing the trachea to one side while the other thumb and index finger feel deeply on either side of the SCM. Aortic aneurysms also increase the risk of developing blood clots in the area. During exercise, individuals with large aneurysms may be at greater risk of an. Glenn Professor of Surgery at Yale University and director emeritus of the Aortic Institute. 1 Even. Thumb Test For Aortic Aneurysms. [1] Aneurysms can affect any blood vessel, but they are most commonly seen in arteries rather than veins. A negative test does not exclude an aneurysm. They kill about 10,000 people each year and affect adults of all ages. AAA may be detected incidentally or at the time of rupture. Best Lab Near Me For Blood Tests And Health Screening – Thumb Test For Aortic Aneurysm. According to a Yale News report, aortic aneurysms are the 13 th most common cause of U. The results can assist your physician figure out a treatment to lower your stroke threat. Symptoms of a thoracic aneurysm may include: Pain in the jaw, neck, or upper back. Wrist or thumb sign 1 Pectus carinatum 2 Pectus excavatum or chest. 6%) (including CABG, valve repair, and descending aortic aneurysm). They kill about 10,000 people each year and affect adults of all ages. Baseline prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease and hypertension in men aged 65–74 years from a population screening study (VIVA trial). This can lead to aortic rupture or decreased blood flow. LIVEThumb palm aneurysm test. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is largely an asymptomatic disease, but the aneurysm may rupture with subsequent mortality rates of at least 80% if early detection and elective AAA repair are not performed [1–4]. Am. The force of blood pumping can split the layers of the artery wall, allowing blood to leak in between them. Your two carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck. THIS simple thumb test can reveal if you’re at risk of a deadly heart problem. That is to say, a positive test implies a substantial likelihood of harboring an ascending aortic aneurysm. 6%) (including CABG, valve repair, and descending aortic aneurysm). 7 mm/year) arterial dissectionScreening and diagnostic tests. Clinical features and differential diagnosis of aortic dissection: experience with 236 cases (1980 through 1990). If an aneurysm smaller than 5. A simple thumb test could be used to identify people at risk of a condition that can kill in minutes and has no symptoms. We conducted the thumb-palm test in 305 patients undergoing cardiac surgery with intra-operative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for a variety of disorders: ascending aneurysm in 59 (19. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common life‐threatening disease that affects 1% to 2% of men by the age of 65 years. An aneurysm is defined as a localized dilatation of a vessel of >50% of the normal diameter and includes all layers of the given vessel. If a large aneurysm ruptures it can cause huge internal bleeding and is. Some doctors think that other groups should be screened too. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a. Abdominal aortic aneurysms are commonly found in men aged 65-85 years. deaths. In 2021, researchers from Yale University published a study in the American Journal of Cardiology about a simple self-administered test utilizing the thumb and palm. In their recent study, Blumel et al1 reported low sensitivity (7. deaths. Dr. Some people are born with them. Researchers evaluated the self-administered thumb-palm test's accuracy among 305 patients undergoing heart surgery for a number of disorders, including aortic aneurysms. For people with small, asymptomatic aortic aneurysms, doctor may opt to monitor the aneurysm at regular intervals using ultrasound or CT scans. AN EASY thumb test may help doctors identify patients who are at risk of an aortic aneurysm — a silent condition that can turn deadly in minutes, experts say. Crossref Medline Google Scholar; 4 Spittell PC, Spittell JA Jr, Joyce JW, Tajik AJ, Edwards WD, Schaff HV, Stanson AW. Get screened for a stroke and cardiovascular disease risk near by. aortic root diameter >55 mm. Glenn Professor of Surgery at Yale University and director emeritus of the Aortic Institute. OBJECTIVE. An aneurysm can be categorized by its location, shape, and cause. Thumb palm test aneurysm. This build up, called atherosclerosis, is one of the leading causes of stroke. Pressure on a nerve is one of the most common causes of a numb thumb. Rapid heart rate. 6%) (including CABG, valve repair, and descending aortic aneurysm). An illustration of an aortic aneurysm and a demonstration of the thumb-palm test. Finding an aortic aneurysm before it ruptures offers your best chance of recovery. Hoarseness (if the aneurysm presses on nerves that affect your voice box ). Elective treatment of asymptomatic AAA, either as open surgery or endovascular repair, is recommended when the maximum diameter of the aneurysm exceeds 50-55mm or increases rapidly. Categories. Often the ECG result is normal in uncomplicated aortic aneurysms. In other words, the majority of aneurysm patients do not manifest a positive thumb-palm sign, but patients who do have a positive sign have a very high likelihood of harboring an. Thumb Palm Test Aneurysm. Just stick out your hand like you're telling someone to stop, and then see how far your thumb can stretch across your palm. Objective: The purpose of the study was to assess the anticipated incremental risk of a concomitant aortic resection performed with an aortic valve replacement. But a Yale study found that you can conduct your own test using the thumb and palm of one hand to assess your risk of having an aortic aneurysm. The aortic valve stays in place. Sustained subcutaneous angiotensin II infusion can induce aortic aneurysms in mice. Cardinal manifestations include proximal aortic aneurysm, dislocation of the ocular lens, and long-bone overgrowth. The 2024 edition of ICD-10-CM I71. A pulsating or throbbing feeling in your stomach area. An aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that develops when there is a split in one or more layers of the aortic artery wall, which can be caused by a ruptured aneurysm. Carotid (kuh-ROT-id) ultrasound is a safe, painless treatment that uses acoustic waves to take a look at the blood flow via the carotid arteries. Stroke symptoms, which can develop when the dissection affects blood vessels leading to the brain. Some conditions that medical professionals commonly screen for. If your thumb can stretch beyond the edge of your hand, it is an indicator your joints may be lax, you may have connective tissue disease, and that can be a sign of a. S. It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. A thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is an abnormal bulge or "ballooning" in the wall of the aortic artery running through the thorax (chest). This process is called a dissection. positive thumb–wrist and/or thumb–palm signs for Marfan syndrome. Studies suggest that using solely AAA diameter for risk stratification is insufficient. This build up, called atherosclerosis, is one of the leading sources of stroke. Wrist and thumb sign — 3. Get screened for a stroke and cardiovascular disease risk near by. A negative test does not exclude an aneurysm. They kill about 10,000 people each year and affect adults of all ages. This is how the thumb test, which is supposed to indicate an aortic aneurysm, works. Carotid (kuh-ROT-id) ultrasound is a risk-free, pain free procedure that makes use of sound waves to check out the blood circulation via the carotid arteries. Our specialists work with you to develop a customized treatment plan. Some symptoms can be a sign of a specific type of aneurysm: Pain in the abdomen or lower back extending into the groin and. m. The thoracic aorta consists of the aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic arch, and the descending aorta. An infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a permanent, localized dilation in the aortic wall defined by a diameter 50% greater than an adjacent, presumably normal aortic segment (≥3. Aortic aneurysm thumb test. As an aortic aneurysm grows, you might notice symptoms including: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Other symptoms caused by internal bleeding and dropping blood pressure, such as a collapse, loss of consciousness, or otherwise becoming extremely unwell. An abdominal aortic aneurysm screening is a quick and painless imaging test that checks for signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Just stick out your hand like you're telling someone to stop, and then see how far your thumb can stretch across your palm. See how you save!Inherited thoracic aortopathies denote conditions in which abnormalities lead to thoracic aortic wall weakness or abnormal aortic hemodynamic profiles, predisposing patients to aortic dilatation, aneurysm formation, and acute aortic complications. An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens when the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the tummy (the aorta) becomes weakened. We suggest that the thumb-palm test be part of the standard physical examination, especially in patients with suspicion of ascending aortic aneurysm (e. 0 and 5. A carotid ultrasound is carried out to examine for narrowed carotid arteries, which boost the threat of stroke. Surgery can prevent that from happening, but carries risks of its own. It's often the screening method of choice for detecting an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a weakened, bulging spot in your abdominal aorta, the artery that runs. They kill about 10,000 people each year and affect adults of all ages. Thumb palm test aneurysm. Increase of mean pressure gradient with exercise. They are more common in men. Pain in the neck, jaw, back, chest, stomach area or shoulder, depending on where the aneurysm is located. This accumulation, called atherosclerosis, is among the leading sources of stroke. If a large aneurysm ruptures it can cause huge internal bleeding and is. The test is simple: Holding up one hand and keeping the palm flat, the patient flexes their thumb as far as possible across the palm. This accumulation, called atherosclerosis, is one of the leading causes of stroke. If you have an aortic aneurysm, you can live with it and you’d have to do what you could to prevent a split or rupture. According to a Yale News report, aortic aneurysms are the 13 th most common cause of U. This is due to an embolus (moving blood clot) that is formed by the abdominal aneurysm and affects the surface temperature of the skin. Updates of Recent Aortic Aneurysm Research. The split or tear enables blood to seep between the aortic wall’s three layers, which can eventually lead to aortic. The new test could help to identify if a person has an unknown aortic aneurysm- an abnormal bulge that occurs in the wall of the major blood vessel. Symptoms that a thoracic aortic aneurysm has ruptured or dissected include: Sharp, sudden pain in the upper back that spreads downward. It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. Other health conditions will be treated and managed. The thumb-palm test is. e. Take the thumb-palm test for aortic aneurysm. This is the American ICD-10-CM version of I71. Aortic aneurysm is characterized by a permanent increase in the diameter of the aorta (>50% increase). 1,2 According to established guidelines, male patients 65 to 75 years of age who have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their. Thumb Palm Test Aortic Aneurysm. This test has a high specificity (98. If an aneurysm smaller than 5. The wall of the aorta is made up of layers. S. Intervention should be considered when the diameter of a thoracic aortic aneurysm reaches 5. But a Yale study found that you can conduct your own test using the thumb and palm of one hand to assess your risk of having an aortic aneurysm. To make the diagnosis your provider may order some tests. Rupture is often lethal; mortality is 85 to 90%. A surgeon inserts a thin, flexible tube, called a catheter, through an artery in the groin area and guides it to the aorta. The walls. Feeling full after not eating very much. Hoarseness (if the aneurysm presses on nerves that affect your voice box ). This occurs because of the weak connective tissues observed in people with aortic aneurysms enabling the thumb to protrude the. The aneurysm is growing quickly, 0. Abdominal ultrasound: An abdominal ultrasound is performed to evaluate abdominal structures, including the abdominal aorta. Thumb test for aortic aneurysm. Most of the literature is devoted to the study of the diameter of AAA since it is known that risk of rupture increases exponentially with. Introduction. The large artery is called the aorta. Ischemic stroke. It is a simple test you can do right now, and it could save your life. When an aneurysm develops, the aorta expands and its walls become weaker. 36 These patients with. Yale Experts Explain How to Test Yourself for Aortic Aneurysms With a Thumb Test. One case describes the absence of the ulnar digital artery on ultrasound, and the authors therefore opted for repair using an arterial graft. However, an aneurysm can occur in different parts of the aorta, including the abdominal section which runs into the arteries in the legs. Formation and growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) may lead to rupture resulting in life threatening haemorrhage. Patency of the corresponding digital artery should be confirmed through preoperative imaging or a digital Allen’s test. Family history and genetics. Aneurysms can develop anywhere in the aorta. This accumulation, called atherosclerosis, is one of the leading causes of stroke. 0 in women. Trouble swallowing or pain with swallowing (if the aneurysm presses on your esophagus ). A Yale study has found that a self-conducted test involving the thumb and palm of one hand could help alert thousands of people each year to their risk of having a hidden aortic aneurysm. All in favor of a test for aortic aneurysms, raise your hand. A thoracic aortic aneurysm or TAA for short is a swelling or bulging of the aorta in the chest. Just stick out your hand like you're telling someone to stop, and then see how far your thumb can stretch across your palm. Numbness in the thumb can also happen if the nerve supply to the thumb and hand is injured or affected by a medical condition. The most common site for an aortic aneurysm is the abdominal aorta, followed by the ascending and descending segments of the thoracic. Pectus carinatum deformity — 2. This process is called a dissection. An AAA is a localized dilatation caused by segmental weakening of the terminal aorta segment. Abdominal ultrasound: An abdominal ultrasound is performed to evaluate abdominal structures, including the abdominal aorta. Get screened for a stroke and cardiovascular disease risk near by. But most occur in the arteries in the brain or in the aorta , which is the major artery that carries blood to the whole body. Aortic root dilation (with a z score ≥ 2 for adults ages 20 or older or a z score ≥ 3 for patients younger than age 20) Systemic feature scoring table Feature and value. It carries blood from your heart up to your head and arms and down to your abdomen, legs, and pelvis. We have noted informally that many patients who are referred to our institution with documented thoracic aortic aneurysms can cross their thumb beyond the edge of the flat palm—a positive ‘thumb-palm’ test—even in the absence of other stigmata of Marfan syndrome or other connective tissue diseases.