Pneumothorax exclusion in critical care ultrasound refers to the rapid and accurate process of ruling out a pneumothorax (collapsed lung). This is achieved by observing specific ultrasound signs, primarily the presence of lung sliding at the pleural line and the absence of B-lines, which confirm that the visceral and parietal pleura are in contact. This bedside assessment is crucial in emergency and intensive care settings to quickly differentiate a pneumothorax from other causes of respiratory distress.
By reliably excluding a pneumothorax, clinicians can avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful interventions like chest X-rays, expediting diagnosis and treatment for critically ill patients. This non-invasive technique enhances diagnostic efficiency and patient safety, making it a cornerstone of modern critical care ultrasound practice.