The role of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in maternal medicine

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is an increasingly valuable tool in maternal medicine, offering rapid, bedside evaluation of critically ill pregnant patients. This study explores the expanding role of POCUS in obstetric care, particularly its application in assessing different organ systems. POCUS enables timely, accurate diagnoses and interventions, crucial for preventing maternal morbidity and mortality. While POCUS is widely used in emergency and intensive care, its potential in obstetric settings remains underexplored. Maternal and Fetal Medicine specialists, who already possess substantial ultrasound expertise, can easily integrate POCUS in daily practice.

Keywords: Cardiovascular assessment; Echocardiography; Lung ultrasound; Maternal health; Point of care ultrasound; Pregnancy complications.