Chest ultrasound in the assessment of patients in ICU: How can it help?

Abstract

Background: Different imaging techniques can be used for assessment of chest problems in ICU patients, however ultrasound is a good diagnostic tool giving more information and at the same time without exposure to radiation and without risk of critical patient transfer. Aim of the work: The aim of this work was to study the role of thoracic ultrasound in assessment of ICU patients. Materials and methods: The study was carried out on 30 patients admitted to the ICU.B and M modes chest ultrasound was done for all patients using EsaoteMyLab™Alpha with eHD Technology. Results: The study included 19 males and 11 females with mean age of 42.6 ± 21.4 years. In this study ultrasound was able to diagnose Pneumothorax: 3 cases (10%). Pleural effusion: 20 cases (66.6%). Alveolar interstitial syndrome: 7 cases (23.3%). Lung consolidation: 20 cases (66.6%). Pulmonary infarcts: 1 case (3.3%). Neoplastic disease: 1 case (3.3%). Chest wall pathology: 1 case (3.3%). Conclusion: Ultrasound examination of the chest is a non- invasive, and promising bed side tool for examination of ICU patients.

Keywords

• Ultrasound
• ICU
• Pneumothorax
• Pleural effusion