Can ultrasound be used as an adjunct for tube thoracostomy? A systematic review of potential application to reduce procedure-related complications

Ultrasound Should Be Routinely Incorporated as an Adjunct to Tube Thoracostomies

“…Our group has published 2 studies and 2 letters in the last years regarding the use of ultrasound as an adjunct to tube thoracostomies to reduce procedural complications. The first was a systematic review of the literature, which ultimately included 6 studies analyzing the potential role of preoperative ultrasound in such procedures 5 . On the basis of clinical questions, we found studies evaluating ultrasound to identify a safe insertion site in relation to the diaphragm and exclude vulnerable intercostal arteries and subcutaneous positioning of the drain.…”

Point-of-care ultrasound as a tool to prevent insertional complications during tube thoracostomy

“…Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may lessen the impact of anatomical and pathological differences among patients in terms of procedural guidance, and can be used as an adjunct for tube thoracostomies, 5 providing adequate visualization of the diaphragm, to avoid low insertions. Studies demonstrate the potential benefits of ultrasound procedural guidance by identifying underlying structures and the most adequate intercostal space for the procedure, when compared to anatomical landmarks.…”