Where does the abdominal aorta originate?
At the left ventricle of the heart
Where does the aorta bifurcate?
Into the common iliac arteries at the level of the umbilicus
What are the three muscle layers of the aorta?
Intima, media, adventitia
What are the three anterior branches of the aorta?
Celiac artery, SMA, IMA
What are the two lateral branches of the aorta?
Right renal artery and left renal artery
How does the aorta appear on ultrasound?
Anechoic lumen with bright, echogenic walls
What is the normal diameter of the aorta?
Up to 3 cm
What are indications for an aortic exam?
Pulsatile mass, abdominal bruit, unexplained pain, AAA follow-up
What AAA size requires follow-up every 6 months?
5-5.4 cm
Where does the IVC originate?
At the junction of the two common iliac veins
Where does the IVC enter the heart?
the right atrium
What branches of the IVC are seen on ultrasound?
3 hepatic veins, 2 renal veins, 2 common iliac veins
How does the IVC appear on ultrasound?
Anechoic lumen with bright, echogenic walls
