Learning objectives
To presentthe technique used for the ultrasonographic (US) evaluation of the lung and pleura and their normal ultrasound appearance.
To demonstrate the most common US findings associated with simple and complicated pleural effusions,
empyema,
hemorrhage and consolidation.
Background
Lung USis being used more and more for the diagnosis and follow-up of pleural effusions in children,
replacing or reducing the use of conventional radiography and thus avoiding radiation exposure.
Since it is abedside examination,widely available and easilyaccepted by parents and children,
this method is highly recommended for the diagnosis and monitoring of pneumonia related effusions (most common in pediatrics) as well as other types of pleural fluid accumulations(such aspost-traumatic effusions in pediatric emergency units).
Another advantage of lung USis represented byits role in guiding...
Findings and procedure details
Examination technique
Patient
the patient is usually examined in a supine position,
but the other positions may be used depending on the clinical situation
there are several scanning methods described in literature,
but maybe the most known and most used is the 3 points examination of each lung as it is fast and produces accurate results
Probes and frequency
any transducer may be used to visualize the lung
liner probes (7-12 MHZ) are great for the visualisation of superficialstructures such as the pleura,
as their...
Conclusion
Lung ultrasonography represents a trustworthy method for the diagnosis and monitoring of simple and complex pleural effusions in children,
with excellent outcomes for the treatment and management of the patients,
while avoiding repetitive radiation exposure.
References
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2.http://journal.chestnet.org/article/S0012-3692(15)37223-8/fulltext
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