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 movement and lung sliding.
For effective intubation verification, sonographers look for bilateral lung sliding and equal diaphragmatic excursion. Absence of lung sliding on one side, coupled with exaggerated movement on the other, strongly suggests mainstem intubation. This immediate visual feedback makes lung ultrasound a valuable, non-invasive tool for confirming correct tube placement and optimizing patient outcomes in acute care.
