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 can lead to life-threatening hemorrhagic shock.
Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) is the primary bedside ultrasound examination used to rapidly detect free fluid, including blood, in key abdominal windows such as Morrison’s pouch, the splenorenal recess, and the suprapubic view. Ultrasound’s speed and non-invasiveness make it indispensable for initial assessment in trauma settings, allowing clinicians to quickly identify and quantify the presence of intraperitoneal bleeding, thereby expediting patient care and improving outcomes.
