Ultrasound of the pediatric chest--the ins and outs

Abstract

Chest radiograph is the primary imaging modality for evaluation of chest pathology and computed tomography scan is typically performed when there is a need for better characterization of the pathology or for surgical planning. Ultrasound (US) is mainly used for the evaluation of pleural effusion. However, US can be used in the evaluation of other pathologies, some of which are occult on chest radiographs. In children, the immature cartilaginous sternum can also serve as an acoustic window for the evaluation of the mediastinum. US of the chest has various advantages including the use of nonionizing radiation, portability, and real-time guidance for interventional procedure. In this review, we discuss the use of US in evaluation of the chest wall, pleural space, lung parenchyma, mediastinum, and diaphragm in children.