Stories That Inspire Global Impact

Mainstem intubation detection is a critical application of lung ultrasound in medical settings, ensuring proper placement of an endotracheal tube. This technique is vital in emergency medicine and intensive care, where rapid and accurate confirmation of tube position is paramount to prevent complications like hypoxemia or unilateral lung ventilation. Ultrasound allows for real-time visualization of…

Diaphragmatic paralysis refers to the impaired or absent movement of the diaphragm, a crucial muscle for respiration, typically due to phrenic nerve dysfunction. In lung ultrasound, this condition manifests as reduced or paradoxical diaphragmatic excursion, where the affected side moves upwards during inspiration instead of downwards. This can lead to significant respiratory compromise, particularly in…

Lung ultrasound (LUS) has emerged as a valuable tool for assessing COVID-19-related lung abnormalities. Key ultrasound findings in COVID-19 include diffuse B-lines (indicating interstitial syndrome), thickened and irregular pleural lines, subpleural consolidations, and less commonly, pleural effusions. These findings help clinicians evaluate disease severity, monitor progression, and guide therapeutic interventions, often serving as a rapid,…

In lung ultrasound, pulmonary embolism (PE) signs are crucial for rapid diagnosis of this life-threatening condition. Key indicators include the absence of lung sliding, the presence of B-lines (indicating interstitial edema), and often, signs of right ventricular strain. The "POCUS" approach for PE evaluation rapidly assesses the heart and lungs, looking for these sonographic clues.…

Pleural thickening in lung ultrasound refers to the abnormal thickening of the pleura, the membranes lining the lungs and chest cavity. This condition can result from various etiologies including chronic inflammation, infection (e.g., pleurisy, tuberculosis), or exposure to asbestos. Ultrasound provides a valuable, non-invasive method for identifying and characterizing pleural thickening, aiding in differential diagnosis.…

Pleural nodularity in lung ultrasound refers to the abnormal appearance of small, circumscribed lesions or lumps on the pleural lining. These nodules can be indicative of various underlying medical conditions, including inflammation, infection, or malignancy, such as metastatic disease or mesothelioma. Their detection is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment planning in respiratory medicine. Ultrasound…

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of advanced cancer, where cancerous cells spread to the pleura, leading to fluid accumulation around the lungs. Ultrasound plays a crucial role in diagnosing MPE by identifying specific findings. Key malignant effusion findings on lung ultrasound include the presence of complex, septated effusions, nodularity or thickening of…

Chest wall invasion, in the context of lung pathology, refers to the extension of a primary lung tumor or metastatic disease directly into the surrounding chest wall structures. This critical finding indicates a more advanced stage of disease and can significantly impact treatment planning and prognosis. Ultrasound can play a role in assessing the extent…

Ultrasound can effectively identify rib fractures, particularly in the context of lung assessment. Key sonographic findings include cortical disruption, hematoma formation, and irregularity of the bony cortex. Visualization often reveals a step-off deformity or discontinuity, with associated overlying soft tissue swelling. When evaluating the lung, rib fractures can be a crucial finding as they may…