Ultrasound Imaging for the Surgical Intensivist

Abstract

Ultrasound imaging technology and techniques have rapidly advanced over the past decade and are now at the point where they should be considered a standard and critical component of critical care practice. All current and future intensivists should be thoroughly familiar with the myriad of applications of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for assisting in the assessment, diagnostic workup, and therapeutic interventions in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. POCUS differs from comprehensive ultrasound (US) in its intent and use. POCUS is performed bedside by a clinician, employed to detect acute and often life-threatening conditions to facilitate treatment or to guide performance of an invasive procedure. It is quick and usually only focuses on a single or limited set of organs. Its clinical applications can be viewed as procedural guidance, diagnostics, monitoring, or resuscitation, with guidelines for the appropriate use of bedside ultrasound in the ICU set forth by the Society of Critical Care Medicine. By following evidence-based recommendations regarding the appropriate use of ultrasound in the ICU, clinicians can provide selected patients with effective and efficient care. This chapter will review the key points and strategies for ICU physicians to incorporate POCUS into their day-to-day practice.