By Kam Chhabra, MRT(N), CCPA — Physician Relations Manager, Vitacorp
Most people have never heard of an abdominal aortic aneurysm until their doctor mentions it. Even then, the name can sound alarming. The good news is that when it’s caught early — which is exactly what screening is for — it’s a manageable condition with good outcomes. The bad news is that many people who should be screened aren’t, often because they don’t know it applies to them or don’t know where to go.
This post explains what AAA is, who should be screened, what the ultrasound involves, and how you can get it done right here in Etobicoke.
What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?
Your aorta is the largest artery in your body — it runs from your heart down through your chest and abdomen, carrying blood to the rest of your body. An aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in the wall of that artery, caused by a weakening of the vessel wall over time.
Small aneurysms often cause no symptoms at all. That’s what makes them dangerous: a person can have an aortic aneurysm for years without knowing it. If it grows too large and ruptures, it can be life-threatening. The goal of AAA screening is to catch an aneurysm when it’s small enough to monitor or treat safely, long before it becomes a crisis.
Who Should Get Screened?
Ontario Health recommends AAA screening specifically for men between 65 and 74 years old who have ever smoked. This group has the highest risk of developing an aortic aneurysm, and the evidence is strong that screening in this population saves lives.
Your doctor may also recommend screening if you:
- Have a family history of aortic aneurysm (especially in a parent or sibling)
- Have a history of high blood pressure that has been difficult to control
- Have atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) or other vascular disease
- Have had an aneurysm elsewhere in the body
Women are less commonly affected, but screening may still be recommended depending on individual risk factors. The most important thing is to have this conversation with your doctor — especially if you’re over 60 and have any of the above risk factors.
What Does the Ultrasound Actually Involve?
This is the part that surprises people: AAA screening is genuinely one of the easiest imaging exams there is.
You lie on a table. A technologist applies a small amount of warm gel to your abdomen and moves a handheld probe gently across your skin. The probe sends sound waves into your body and creates images of your aorta on a screen. The technologist takes measurements of the vessel diameter at various points. The whole thing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
There’s no radiation. There’s no injection. Nothing goes inside your body. The gel wipes off immediately after. Most patients tell us it was less of a big deal than they expected.
One practical note: you’re usually asked to fast for 4 to 6 hours before an abdominal scan of this type. Gas in the bowel can make it harder to visualize the aorta clearly. Your doctor’s requisition should specify preparation instructions — if it doesn’t, call us at (416) 762-3818 and we’ll let you know what’s needed for your specific exam.
Is It Covered by OHIP?
Yes — AAA screening ultrasound is covered by OHIP when ordered by a physician for an eligible patient. You need a valid Ontario health card and a signed requisition from your doctor. No out-of-pocket cost if those two things are in order.
Vitacorp is an accredited diagnostic imaging facility, which is a requirement for OHIP billing. You’re covered here.
Getting Screened at Vitacorp in Etobicoke
We offer vascular ultrasound, including abdominal aortic evaluation, at Vitacorp Islington Station. Same-day ultrasound appointments are often available — our goal is to get patients in quickly rather than making them wait weeks for a scan that should happen promptly.
We’re at Suite 603, 1243 Islington Ave — connected directly to Islington TTC Station via covered walkway. If you’re taking the subway, you won’t even step outside. Our hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
What to bring: your valid Ontario health card and your doctor’s signed requisition. Call us at (416) 762-3818 to confirm same-day availability or to ask about fasting requirements before your visit.
Our Team Understands That Vascular Imaging Can Feel Serious
When you come in for a scan related to vascular health, you’re often coming in with a bit of worry. That’s completely understandable — even when a screening scan is routine and precautionary, the fact that your doctor recommended it can sit in the back of your mind.
Our team is experienced with vascular ultrasound, and they approach each patient with the care that kind of visit deserves. They’ll explain what they’re doing, answer the questions they can, and make sure you’re comfortable throughout. We’re not in the business of rushing people through. Getting the imaging right — and helping patients feel settled in the process — is the actual job.
If you’ve been referred for an AAA screening or a vascular ultrasound and you’re in the Etobicoke or west Toronto area, we’re here. Come in, get it done, and let your doctor take it from there with the information they need.
— Kam, Vitacorp Islington Station
📍 Suite 603, 1243 Islington Ave, Etobicoke | 📞 (416) 762-3818 | Mon–Fri 8am–5pm
What Patients Are Saying
4.4 stars — 198 Google reviews
“Fantastic team of professionals! Clean facility! Best place for X-ray and ultrasound in Etobicoke.” — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Local Guide (141 reviews)
“I came in for an X-ray the other day and was taken right in. This is the fastest and most efficient walk-in X-ray clinic in Etobicoke I have been to. The staff is very professional.” — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cove Mechanical
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AAA screening ultrasound?
A painless ultrasound that measures the size of the abdominal aorta to check for aneurysm (dangerous bulging). No needles, no radiation. Takes about 15–30 minutes.
Who needs AAA screening in Ontario?
Ontario Health recommends it for men aged 65–74 who have ever smoked. Your doctor may also recommend it based on personal or family risk factors.
Is AAA screening covered by OHIP?
Yes, when ordered by a physician for eligible patients. Bring your health card and doctor’s requisition.
Do I need to fast before an AAA ultrasound?
Usually yes — 4 to 6 hours of fasting is typically required. Confirm with your doctor or call Vitacorp at (416) 762-3818 before your visit.
Where can I get an AAA ultrasound in Etobicoke?
Vitacorp Islington Station at Suite 603, 1243 Islington Ave. Same-day ultrasound often available. Call (416) 762-3818 to check availability.
How long until I get results?
Results are sent to your referring doctor the same day at Vitacorp. Your doctor will contact you to discuss findings and any recommended follow-up.
