Abstract
Ultrasound imaging of the abdomen can be a valuable tool in the bedside assessment of the critically ill patient. A systematic and reproducible approach to critical care ultrasound assessment of the abdomen is outlined in this chapter, using a four-point, location-specific approach adapted from the Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) exam. This system allows for the rapid assessment of multiple organs and pathologies pertinent to the critically ill patient, including assessment of the urinary tract, diagnosis of free fluid, and imaging of important vascular structures. Limitations of this approach and common pitfalls in imaging acquisition and interpretation are discussed. Adoption of this location-specific approach will provide the novice critical care ultrasonographer with a structure for approaching abdominal ultrasound in the intensive care unit.
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Minami, T. (2015). Abdominal Ultrasound and Genitourinary Ultrasound in the Intensive Care Unit. In: Jankowich, M., Gartman, E. (eds) Ultrasound in the Intensive Care Unit. Respiratory Medicine. Humana Press, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-1723-5_12
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-1723-5_12
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