Updates in pediatric ultrasound

Abstract

Purpose of reviewPoint-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has various diagnostic and therapeutic applications in the pediatric acute care setting that have an impact on clinical outcomes. Recent findingsPOCUS can improve diagnostic efficiency and expedite management in pediatric patients who present to the emergency department with common complaints such as respiratory distress, abdominal pain, shock, and pain. SummaryRapid advancements in POCUS have allowed it to become a powerful tool in pediatric care. As the clinical applications of ultrasound diversify, research is needed to evaluate impacts on healthcare outcomes, delivery, and costs.

Epistle

“…POCUS can be beneficial in skilled hands and emerging evidence suggests improved outcomes with its use. 2 Elisa Poletto and colleagues discuss a niche use of transcranial doppler (TCD) ultrasound assessment of the middle cerebral artery in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Cerebral blood flow pattern from a TCD may provide useful information on the cerebrovascular status of patients at risk of acquired brain injury.…”