Thoracic Rapid Ultrasound in Trauma
Background
Patients with penetrating thoracic and abdominal trauma require rapid diagnosis and treatment of injuries such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, and hemoperitoneum. Portable x-rays have a poor sensitivity for these injuries and patients are often not stable enough to immediately undergo CT scan. Ultrasound (US) has a long history of providing rapid, noninvasive diagnosis at the bedside. The purpose of this study is to determine the accuracy of ultrasound as part of the secondary survey of the patient with penetrating chest trauma, compared with standard evaluation.
Inclusion Criteria
ALL Patients with penetrating thoracic or abdominal trauma are candidates.
Data Collection
In every case of penetrating thoracic or abdominal trauma, a TRUST exam as well as a FAST exam will be performed during the secondary survey. Operators will note the presence or absence of:
- Pneumothorax
- Hemothorax
- Hemoperitoneum
- Pericardial effusion
