Pulmonary ultrasound in the intensive care unit

Abstract

Pulmonary ultrasonography (PUSG) is a new diagnostic tool for pleuropulmonary disease in the critically ill patient. Images obtained in this study result from the interaction between the ultrasound shaft with the pleura, the pulmonary parenchyma and the air/liquid interface. These images are classified as horizontal and vertical. Their correct identification and interpretation requires a learning curve. Currently, PUSG is an excellent alternative to evaluate pulmonary condition of hospitalized patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Sensitivity and specificity are high for pneumothorax, alveolar-interstitial syndrome and pleural effusion diagnosis. PUSG practiced in the ICU is one of the most promising diagnostic procedures in intensive care medicine, and the practice and indications of this tool will surely extend in the coming years. The objective of this study is to make known the general principles of PUSG and their use in the critically ill patient, based on cases of hospitalized patients in the ICU of the Medica Sur Clinical Foundation that were studied with PUSG.