Ultrasound evaluation of abdominal trauma in the emergency department

Abstract

To review the use of ultrasound for assessment of abdominal trauma during the secondary assessment. Three current methods for evaluation of abdominal trauma will be outlined. The use of ultrasound in evaluation of patients with blunt abdominal trauma will be highlighted, including performance of test, time to test completion, strengths, and limitations. The use of serial examination utilizing focused abdominal sonography for blunt trauma (FAST) to evaluate hemoperitoneum will be presented.