Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is changing the practice of nearly all specialties and is increasingly being incorporated as a bedside tool by more gastroenterologists and hepatologists. POCUS is most often used to answer focused diagnostic questions, supplement the traditional physical examination, and guide performance of invasive bedside procedures. This review describes several common POCUS applications used in gastroenterology and hepatology, as well as some novel applications that warrant further investigation.

Keywords: Bowel US; Cirrhosis; Diverticulitis; Gastric Emptying; Gastroenterology; Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Intestinal Obstruction; Point-of-Care Ultrasound.