[Lung and pleural ultrasound]

Abstract

Palpable nodules at the chest wall (e.g. lymph nodes) and rib fractures can be characteristically visualized by ultrasound. The simplest method and most sensitive technique to image and measure pleural fluid is ultrasound. Sonographic evidence of pleural nodules is a specific finding in patients with malignant effusions. Peripheral pulmonary consolidations are visible by ultrasound if they extend up to the pleura. One can image pleuritis, pneumonia, lung cancers, pulmonary infarction, and atelectasis in typical sonomorphology, but limited specificity. Ultrasound guided transthoracic puncture is minimally stressfulfor the patient, is accurate, has a low rate of complications and is also cost effective.