American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

For aortic diameters greater than 4.5 cm, how often should reimaging be performed?

1. Every six months

2. Every year

3. Every three years

4. Every two years

The correct answer is: Every year

For aortic diameters greater than 4.5 cm, the standard recommendation for surveillance imaging is to perform it annually. This guideline is based on the increased risk of aortic aneurysm rupture as the aneurysm enlarges, and regular imaging allows for monitoring of its growth and timely intervention if necessary. Annual reimaging at this size helps to ensure that any significant changes in the size of the aorta can be identified without undue delay. When the aortic diameter reaches this size, the likelihood of progression is significant enough that waiting longer than a year could potentially place the patient at risk if the aneurysm expands rapidly. The other options suggest longer intervals between imaging, which would not provide the vigilant monitoring necessary for such patients. Therefore, the annual approach aligns with best practices for managing the risk associated with larger aortic diameters.