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Free pelvic fluid, in the context of FAST/Trauma ultrasound, refers to any abnormal fluid collection detected within the pelvic cavity. This critical finding often indicates internal bleeding (hemoperitoneum) or other fluid effusions following blunt or penetrating trauma. Rapid identification of free pelvic fluid during a FAST exam is crucial for immediate patient management, guiding decisions…

The retrovesical space in FAST/Trauma ultrasound refers to the potential space located behind the urinary bladder and in front of the rectum in males, or behind the bladder and in front of the uterus/vagina in females. This anatomical region is crucial for identifying free fluid, such as blood or urine, that may accumulate following blunt…

Pelvic fractures, while primarily diagnosed by CT or X-ray, can have indirect findings on a FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) exam. In the context of trauma ultrasound, the primary utility of FAST is to rapidly detect free fluid, such as blood, in the peritoneal cavity, which may be associated with pelvic bleeding. While…

Retrohepatic IVC visualization is a critical component of the Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) exam. This ultrasound technique evaluates the inferior vena cava (IVC) as it passes behind the liver, providing rapid, non-invasive insights into a patient's volume status and cardiac function. In trauma settings, assessing IVC collapsibility helps determine the presence of…

Perisplenic fluid, in the context of FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) and trauma, refers to the accumulation of free fluid, typically blood, around the spleen. This critical finding on an ultrasound exam suggests potential splenic injury or other internal hemorrhage, which can result from blunt abdominal trauma. Rapid identification of perisplenic fluid is…

In FAST/Trauma ultrasound, the thoracic sliding lung sign is a crucial indicator of pneumothorax, reflecting the normal movement of the visceral pleura against the parietal pleura during respiration. This "lung sliding" appears as a shimmering, granular motion or "ants marching" pattern on M-mode ultrasound, signifying no air is trapped between the lung and chest wall.…

The hepatorenal recess, also known as Morrison's pouch, is a critical potential space in the abdomen located between the liver and the right kidney. In FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) exams, this area is a key target for detecting free fluid, such as blood, indicating internal hemorrhage after trauma. Its anatomical position makes…

Pericardial tamponade, a critical finding in FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma), describes a life-threatening condition where excessive fluid accumulation within the pericardial sac compresses the heart, severely impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This compression leads to decreased cardiac output, hypotension, and potential circulatory collapse. Early detection via rapid ultrasound assessment in…

Intraperitoneal bleeding, a critical finding in FAST/Trauma ultrasound, refers to hemorrhage within the peritoneal cavity, the space surrounding abdominal organs. This can result from blunt or penetrating trauma, leading to fluid accumulation that appears anechoic or hypoechoic on ultrasound. Prompt identification is crucial for managing unstable patients and guiding surgical intervention, as unrecognized intraperitoneal bleeding…