Would a routine, regular abdominal x-ray be able to detect an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

If calcified.: If the wall of the aneurysm is calcified it may be possible to see it on a regular abdominal x-ray especially if a transtable view is obtained.

Sometimes: If there is enough calcium in the wall of the aneurysm it may be able to be seen on plain x-ray. The best screening method for an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta is an ultrasound. This is non invasive and easy to do.

Maybe: If aneurysm calcified. Ultrasound or ct scan best way to check.

Sometimes: Calcified aaa's can be seen on plain films but most would be very poorly seen. Aaa's that are not causing symptoms are most often found when a physician is performing an imaging test, such as an ultrasound or ct scan, for another condition. Sometimes your physician may feel a large pulsing mass in your abdomen on a routine physical examination.

Get an ultrasound: Ultrasound is a superior test for detecting abdominal aortic aneurysms. It is non-invasive and does not require ionizing radiation (it uses sound waves). If you're a smoker, have copd, high blood pressure, or a have a family member with an aneurysm ask if you should be screened. Abdominal x-ray is not a good test for detecting aneurysms- it relies on detecting calcium and misses many!