X-ray is a sensitive modality for AAA detection.

• A. True
• B. Not sure
• C. False
• D. Often

Answer: (C)

X-ray is not a sensitive method for detecting abdominal aortic aneurysms. A plain abdominal X-ray can sometimes hint at issues by showing calcification in the aortic wall, but many aneurysms do not have visible calcification and the soft tissues don’t reveal the true size or extent of the dilation. Because of that, relying on X-ray would miss a large number of AAAs, especially smaller or early ones. The reliable way to screen for AAA is ultrasound, which directly measures the aortic diameter with high sensitivity and specificity. If an aneurysm is suspected or detailed anatomy is needed for treatment planning, CT angiography or MR angiography is used for precise assessment. So the statement is not accurate.