Point-of-Care Cardiac Ultrasound in COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

(1) Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with the development of Acute COVID-19 Cardiovascular Syndrome (ACovCS) in critically ill patients. In this case series, we evaluated the incidence of ACovCS by ultrasound in critically COVID-19 ill patients. (2) Methods: This case series included all patients with confirmed COVID-19 requiring admission to the ICU at Monaldi Hospital (AORN Ospedale dei Colli, Naples), between March 14th, 2020, and May 1st, 2020. On admission, in stable clinical conditions, an experienced and certified intensivist performed Point-Of-Care Cardiac Ultrasound (POC-CU). The exam was performed daily in every patient and repeated according to clinical evolution and intensivist’s judgment during the length of stay. Ex-Novo ACovCS echocardiographic patterns were noted. (3) Results: POC-CU evaluation performed on 19 patients revealed that, on admission, five patients (26.3%) presented an echocardiographic pattern like cor pulmonale. During the length of stay, seven patients (36.8%) presented ex-Novo echocardiographic alterations, suggesting ACovCS. Pericardial effusion (26.3%), acute right impairment due to pulmonary embolism (5.3%) and acute left impairment by wall motion alteration (5.3%) were the most common findings. (4) Conclusions: Ex-Novo cardiac abnormalities shown by POC-CU were common in patients with severe COVID-19. Competence in POC-CU is essential in identifying ACovCS in COVID-ICU and clinical decision-making.