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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…

The Shock Assessment Protocol in FAST/Trauma ultrasound is a critical, rapid evaluation tool for patients presenting with signs of shock. This protocol systematically integrates focused ultrasound views, particularly those used in the FAST exam, to identify potential causes of hemodynamic instability, such as severe internal bleeding (hemoperitoneum or hemothorax), pericardial effusion leading to tamponade, or…

A retroperitoneal bleed is a hemorrhage occurring in the retroperitoneal space, the anatomical area behind the peritoneum. In the context of FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) and trauma, identifying a retroperitoneal bleed with ultrasound can be challenging due to its deep location and the presence of bowel gas. While not directly visualized in…

In FAST/Trauma ultrasound, the costophrenic angle refers to the acute angle formed by the diaphragm and the chest wall. This anatomical landmark is crucial during a FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) exam to identify potential fluid collections like hemothorax. A blunted or obscured costophrenic angle on ultrasound can indicate fluid accumulation in the…

Hepatic laceration, a critical injury in FAST/Trauma ultrasound, refers to a tear or rupture in the liver, often resulting from blunt abdominal trauma. This can lead to internal bleeding, requiring rapid assessment. Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) is crucial for quickly identifying free fluid (blood) in the abdomen, indicative of such injuries. Early…