Abstracts from the 13th WINFOCUS World Congress on Ultrasound in Emergency & Critical Care
Crit Ultrasound J
Abstracts from the 13th WINFOCUS World Congress on Ultrasound in Emergency & Critical Care
0 Department of Emergency Medicine , New York‐Presbyterian , Brooklyn Methodist Hospital , Brooklyn, NY, USA Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A3 , USA
1 A3 Survey of attendees of WINFOCUS USLS‐BL course in Slovenia Gregor Prosen
2 A2 Type A thoracic aortic dissection suspected on resident performed bedside transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in a patient with initial electrocardiogram (ECG) demonstrating an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) Michael Halperin, Felipe Serrano Department of Emergency Medicine, Jacobi & Montefiore Medical Centers , Bronx, NY, USA Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A2
3 University of Maribor Medical Faculty , Maribor , Slovenia
4 Center for Emergency Medicine Maribor, Slovenia, University of Maribor Medical Faculty , Maribor , Slovenia
5 A1 Radial artery pseudoaneurysm diagnosed by point‐of‐care ultrasound five days after transradial catheterization: a case report Stephen Alerhand
6 A7 Sonographic abdominal A‐lines could suggest pneumoperitoneum on bedside ultrasound: don't miss it! Mohd Hashairi Fauzi, Zulaili Asri, Norainal Atiqah Mohamed, Mohmad Aswad Mohmad Amin Emergency Ultrasound Unit, Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus , 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A7
7 Dept. of Radiology, University Clinical Centre Maribor , Maribor , Slovenia
8 A5 Wide‐QRS tachycardia
9 A4 Survey of a novel introductory POCUS course Gregor Prosen
10 Department of Emergency Medicine , New York‐Presbyterian , Brooklyn Methodist Hospital , Brooklyn, NY, USA Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A4 , USA
11 Emergency Department, University Clinical Centre Maribor , Maribor , Slovenia
12 shock: ruptured AAA‐importance of the RUSH protocol in the ER P. Gallego Rodríguez, Tomas Villén Villegas, A. Trueba Vicente, L. W. Alba Muñoz, C. Guillén Astete, N. Díaz García, N. García Montes Emergency Department, Hospital Universitario Ramon y Cajal , Madrid , Spain Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A5
13 Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA , 17000, Pasir Mas, Kelantan, Malaysia Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A10
14 A10 Is performing FAST causing musculoskeletal injury? Shaik Farid Abdull Wahab
15 Department of Technology Creative and Heritage , Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, 16300, Bachok, Kelantan , Malaysia
16 Emergency Ultrasound Unit, Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus , 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan , Malaysia
17 A9 Transesophageal ECHO: an ergonomic point of view Shaik Farid Abdull Wahab
18 West Virginia University School of Medicine , Morgantown, WV, USA Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A14 , USA
19 Department of Emergency Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine , Morgantown, WV , USA
20 A14 Early recognition of left ventricular aneurysm with point‐of‐care ultrasound Erich Lidstone
21 A17 Ultrasonographic evaluation of the main central venous access points, by medical students José Muniz Pazeli Junior, Ana Luisa Silveira Vieira, Bernardo Costa Lemos, Marinna Marques Rodrigues Saliba, Maurício Dutra Costa, Pedro Andrade Mello, Rosimary Souza Vicentino Barbacena's School of Medicine , Minas Gerais, Brazil Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A17
22 AREU‐Azienda Regionale Emergenza Urgenza, Policlinico San Matteo Hospital , Pavia , Italy
23 AREU‐Azienda Regionale Emergenza Urgenza, Niguarda Hospital , Milan , Italy
24 A22 Middle cerebral and common carotid arteries color‐Doppler evaluation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation Stefano Geniere Nigra
25 University of Pavia , Pavia , Italy
26 A21 Emergency bedside ultrasound in first trimester pregnancy; knowledge, attitudes and practices survey of documentation and reimbursement Elizabeth Krebs , Frances Shofer, Cameron Baston, Christy Moore, Wilma Chan, Anthony J. Dean , Nova Panebianco Division of Ultrasound, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, PA, USA Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A21 , USA
27 Department of Ultrasound, Hospital de Emergencias “Dr. Clemente Álvarez” (HECA) , Rosario, Argentina Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A22
28 Emergency Medicine Resident, University of Bicocca , Milan , Italy
29 ASST‐Azienda Socio‐Sanitaria Terrritoriale Pavia‐Ospedale Civile , Vigevano , Italy
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Background: Though an extremely rare complication of arterial
cannulation, the incidence of radial pseudoaneurysm may increase with the
growing use of extended radial artery access for coronary angiography.
Case report: A 57 year-old female presented to the emergency
department with painful swelling to the volar radial surface of her
right wrist 5 days after a non-emergent transradial coronary
angiography. An emergency physician used point-of-care ultrasound to
diagnose a radial artery pseudoaneurysm. The high-frequency linear
transducer allowed visualization of the arterial wall defect and
connection between artery and hematoma on B-mode, turbulent
pulsatile flow into the adjacent hematoma using color flow Doppler, and a
to-and-fro waveform at the wall defect using spectral Doppler. Due to
the size and characteristics of the pseudoaneurysm, as well as her pain
and mild distal sensory deficits, it was determined that the patient
required prompt operative repair.
Discussion: Bedside ultrasound is the most rapid and dynamic
imaging modality for making diagnosing a radial artery pseudoaneurysm.
Different techniques for treating this condition include conservative
care, extended compression, thrombin injection, and surgery.
Management primarily depends on the size of the pseudoaneurysm and
its associated symptoms.
Conclusion: In addition to understanding the pathophysiology and
risk factors for this condition, the emergency physician must be adept
at using point-of-care ultrasound to both make the diagnosis and
characterize its findings to determine management.
Case report: A middle-aged male with no past medical history
presented to the emergency department with chest pain, shortness of
breath, nausea, and vomiting for 3 h. Distressed and diaphoretic, his
vital signs were: blood pressure 92/53 mmHg, pulse 112, respirations
26/min, Sp02 96% on room air. His ECG was concerning for STEMI in
the left circumflex territory and the catheterization team was activated
in the middle of the night. Point of care TTE showed left ventricular
dysfunction and a dilated aortic root with concern for an intimal tear
just superior to the aortic valve, suspicious for aortic dissection.
Pointof-care-ultrasound (POCUS) findings prompted the mobilization of
the cardiothoracic surgery team. An aortogram showed a devastating
type A aortic dissection involving the coronary arteries including a
likely occlusion of the left main.
Keywords: Type A thoracic aortic dissection, Transthoracic
echocardiogram (TTE), Point of care ultrasound (POCUS), ST elevation
myocardial infarction (STEMI)
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
Objective: To assess the degree of uptake, regular use, and obstacles
in applying point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), following standardized
WINFOCUS Ultrasound Life Support (USLS-BL) courses in Slovenia
from 2009 to 2016.
Methods: An online survey of all WINFOCUS USLS-BL courses in
Slovenia.
Results: Of 660 attendees, we obtained 125 complete responses
(18.9%). Majority (67%) attendees were resident or junior attending
physicians. Amongst specialties represented, attendees were from
family medicine (34%), emergency medicine (19%), anaesthesia (11%),
and internal medicine (13%). Majority of attendees (87%) evaluated
course content and depth as appropriate. Following completion of
course, 73% reported having access to US machines always or most of
the time; 7% of respondents use POCUS more than 5 times daily while
44% use it at least “few times par day to few times per week”, and 14%
have never used POCUS after the course. Following completion of the
course, attendees used POCUS for the following applications: lung
(74%), DVT (73%), AAA (71%), FAST (67%), and focused cardiac (62%).
42% felt “confident” about their FAST examinations, 41% of their AAA
examinations, 41% of their lung US examinations and 22% of their
focused cardiac examinations. Overall, 36% did not feel confident
about any of their POCUS applications; 70% responded they didn’t
keep up regular practice, mostly due to the lack of mentoring and/or
continuous supervision.
Conclusion: Lack of continuous mentoring program and regular
practice appear to be the is main obstacles to the widespread use and
implementation of POCUS following a 2 day WINFOCUS USLS-BL
introductory course in Slovenia.
Objective: This study sought to show that the basic level courses
(WINFOCUS USLS-BL) give too much information to complete novice
point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) users to process, with little chance
to consolidate knowledge and skill.
Methods: We divided traditional 2 day USLS-BL course structure into
two separate 1-day courses, conducted at 5 months apart. Prior to
initiation of Day 1/introductory course, attendees were required to view
4+ hours of introductory videos on the basic POCUS applications. The
course consisted of short review didactic lectures followed by
handson practice of each application; measurement of abdominal aorta, the
identification of a proximal DVT, the FAST exam including SC4C view
of heart, the identification of lung sliding and haemothorax, and the
assessment of IVC collapsibility. Following the course, all attendees
(n = 22) were sent an online survey (10-point Likert-like scale) in order
to assess their opinions and satisfaction regarding the course
materials and format.
Results: Post-course survey response rate was 86%. Attendees were
satisfied with the pre-course videos (8.8). Prior to viewing the videos
and taking the course, attendees graded their level of knowledge and
skill at 3.6. After the course and after acquiring their first independent
POCUS image acquisitions, attendees’ average confidence level was
6.5. The attendees’ overall course assessment was 9.2.
Conclusion: Attendees of a 1-day introductory POCUS course were
highly satisfied with pre-course materials (flipped classroom) and
overall course structure. Attendees felt reasonably confident to start
acquiring images independently, especially in conjunction with an
online mentoring program.
Case report: 85-year-old male, with a history of chronic AF, who is
admitted to the ER because of syncope while at his health center. A
wide-QRS tachycardia at 250 bpm was detected, calling the
Prehospital Emergency Unit (SUMMA) who administered Adenosine
unsuccessfully, so a bolus of Amiodarone was administered. Upon arrival he
presented AF with a controlled ventricular response, but hypotension
around 70/40 so they began aggressive IV fluid therapy. Despite the
good response in the BP with the administration of only 300 cc of
normal saline, and given the unexplained initial hypotension, a RUSH
protocol ultrasonography was performed, detecting an abdominal aorta
aneurism with a diameter of 9 cm. An urgent CT scan was requested,
confirming the existence of a 9 cm in diameter infrarenal aorta
aneurism with an adjacent left perirenal complicated hematoma. The
vascular surgeons were warned, deciding the performance of emergency
surgery and inserting a right aortoiliac endoprosthesis. The patient
had to undergo a second surgery because of an endoleak. Good
progress, being discharged 6 days later.
Conclusions: This case demonstrates the importance of PoCUS when
evaluating a patient in shock. It also comes to prove the need of
providing all health resources with ultrasonography equipment, given
the fact that despite all the published evidence, its use is not yet
widespread.
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
A6
Lung blockage assessment through ultrasound in thorax surgery:
first experience in our medium
Jimena Areco1,2, Daniel Terra1,2, Fiorella Cavalleri1,2, Siul Salisbury1,2, Ana
Rodríguez1,2
1Surgery Division, Department of Anesthesiology, Thorax Institute,
Montevideo, Uruguay; 2Hospital de Clínicas, Universidad de la República,
Asociación Española, Montevideo, Uruguay
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A6
Goal: Assessing the validity and effectiveness of pulmonary
ultrasound against clinical method to corroborate left selective intubation
on thorax surgery.
Materials and methods: Transversal study, observational,
prospective, double blind. 59 patients in 2 different stages where included:
(1-n 15 technique development; 2-n 44). After intubation with left
double-lumen tube, sequential clamping of both lights, both clinically
assessment of position and through ultrasound with subsequent
confirmation through fibrobronchoscopy (reference standards)
Stage 2 results: In 56.8% (n = 25) of cases the tube was placed properly.
Ultrasound validation (proper collocation): sensitivity of 84.0% (IC 95%
63.1–94.7), specificity of 94.7% (IC 95% 71.9–99.7), positive predictive
values 95.4% (IC 95% 75.1–99.7), negative predictive value 81.8% (IC
at 95% 59.0–94.0). Validity of pulmonary auscultation: sensitivity of
96.0% (IC at 95% 77.7–99.8), specificity of 100% (IC at 95% 79.1–100),
positive predictive values of 100% (IC at 95% 82.8–100), negative
predictive value of 95% (IC at 95% 73.1–99.7).
Discussion: The difference in results with other authors might
respond to difference in expertise (first experience on our medium),
wider inclusion criteria, and number of patients. We propose
increasing the “n” and adding other ultrasonic signs of assessment.
Conclusion: Ultrasound is presented in a promising way as a
complementary tool to clinic evaluation.
Objective: To demonstrate the use of bedside ultrasound in detecting
intraperitoneal free gas in acute abdomen patient presented to
Emergency Department (ED)
Methods: A 78-year-old lady presented to ED with history of
progressively worsening abdominal pain and vomiting for a week. She had
multiple medical problems including diabetes mellitus and
hypertension. On arrival, she was lethargy but arousable to pain. Her vitals were
normal except for low blood pressure (90/60 mmHg) and slight
tachycardia (110 bpm). Her abdomen was distended and tender over the
epigastric area. Initial erect chest radiograph was inconclusive.
Bedside abdominal ultrasound then was performed using low frequency
probe and revealed a free fluid in Morrison pouch and prehepatic
area with presence of multiple, equally space, horizontal, hyper echoic
lines repeating down the screen which resembles A-lines in thoracic
ultrasound. Repeated erect chest radiograph later confirms
pneumoperitoneum. Exploratory laparotomy was done and revealed perforated
gastric ulcer 2.5 cm at anterior body of stomach.
Results: Perforated viscus is not common yet required urgent
intervention. Although plain radiograph is always the first line imaging in
patient suspected perforation, ultrasonography can usually show the
signs of pneumoperitoneum if present. The main sonographic signs
are increased echogenicity of peritoneal stripe and multiple reflection
artifacts resemble A-lines.
Conclusion: Ultrasound users should aware of these signs when
performing the point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) in suspected
perforation patient presented to ED
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
A8
Case report mediastinal mass mimicking lung hepatization: the role
of bedside ultrasound
Mohd Hashairi Fauzi, Adeline Marie Gnanasegaran Xavier, Mohd Anas
Mohd Nor, Khairul Izwan Hashim, Shaik Farid Abdull Wahab, Mohd
Boniami Yazid, Mohammad Zikri Ahmad
Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medical Sciences,
Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan,
Malaysia
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A8
Objective: To demonstrate the use of bedside ultrasound in detecting
mediastinal mass in Emergency Department (ED).
Methods: We presented a case of 18-year-old male came to ED with
complaints of fever, cough, shortness of breath and pleuritic chest
pain. Examination revealed a febrile, tachypneic patient with chest
examinations suggestive of left pleural effusion. Full blood count
showed leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia and the chest radiograph
showed massive left sided pleural effusion. However, bedside
ultrasound showed presence of lung hepatization with hypoechoic lesion
at anterior zone of both lungs which was atypical of lung
collapseconsolidation. Urgent CT thorax was proceed and confirmed the lesion
visualized on ultrasound as mediastinal lymphoma.
Results: A rapidly progressive symptoms should trigger the
suspicion of malignancy even in the young healthy group of
individuals. Between pulmonary infection and mediastinal mass, the clinical
features may overlap, but the use of ultrasound helps to distinguish
between these two pathologies. Sonographic signs that suggestive of
mediastinal mass include lack of pleural lines and sliding sign, absence
of A-profile and homogeneity difference of the lesion. This helps to
decide the urgency of doing CT thorax and initiate the necessary
treatment as the management greatly varies.
Conclusion: The use of lung ultrasound in ED is important in
detecting undiagnosed mediastinal mass. It helps not only to rule out
differential diagnosis, but it also helps to increase a suspicion based on
initial clinical findings and laboratory parameters.
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
Objective: To evaluate the risk of musculoskeletal disorder
(MSD) among medical officers that perform transesophageal
echocardiogram (TEE) at Accident and Emergency Department,
Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Methods: Rapid entire body assessment (REBA) is use to determine
the risk level of MSD among the medical officers. The voluntarily based
participants had been assigned to perform the procedure. For each
of the participants, their body postures were captured using high
resolution camera. The participants body postures were evaluated and
recorded throughout the procedure. The risk of MSD for each
participant were calculated in order to determine whether the risk of MSD is,
negligible, low, medium, high or very high.
Results: A total of 10 medical officers took part in this study. Finding
shows the medical officers that conduct TEE face high risk of MSD due
to the poor body posture during the procedure. REBA score starting
from 9 shows the medical officers is categorized under high risk of
MSD. Prolonged probe holding, twisted wrist and body of the medical
officers contributed to the high REBA score. Frequent wrist movement
in less than 1 min also contribute to the high score.
Conclusion: The use of TEE in accident and emergency department
is becoming an important procedure to assist in diagnosis and saving
patients’ life. However, the risk of MSD due to this procedure affect the
medical officer’s health and should be given serious attention.
Objective: To determine the risk of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD)
among medical officers that conduct focus assessment with
sonography in trauma (FAST).
Methods: Rapid entire body assessment (REBA) is used to evaluate the
level of risk of MSD among the medical officer. The score for REBA are
range from 1, 2 to 3, 4 to 7, 8 to 10 and 11 and above. Each score
represents different risk level of MSD. This study has been done at
Accident and Emergency Department, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan,
Malaysia. During this study, 30 medical officers, had performed FAST
on patients. The medical officers involved in this study are based on
voluntarily basis. The body postures of each of the medical officers
were observed and recorded using camera. REBA score was calculated
based on their postures.
Results: Finding shows the risk of musculoskeletal disorder among
medical officers that conducted FAST did exist. REBA scores show the
risk of musculoskeletal disorder, range from 4 to 9. According to REBA
score, 4–7 is in medium risk, thus further investigation is needed to
improvise the condition of the body posture. REBA score 9 falls under
high risk to develop MSD, therefore indicates immediate further
investigation and relevant changes need to be done.
Conclusion: FAST has been increasingly done in accident and
emergency department. Since the finding revealed an alarming risk of MSD,
it is important to address this matter appropriately. This is essential in
developing a safe working approach for medical officers that conduct
the procedure.
A11
Accessibility to echocardiographic intraoperative transthoracic
windows in abdominal surgery under general anesthesia
Mauro Constantini
Hospital Privado de Comunidad, Mar del Plata, Argentina
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A11
Background and objective: There is enough bibliography that
supports the use of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and the
impact it generates in the field of critical medicine. However, the
main limitation in anesthesia is access to windows in patients with
unchanged positions and usually in mechanical ventilation. Therefore
we decided to conduct an observational study regarding the
obtaining of basic echocardiographic windows in patients under general
anesthesia.
Methods: 50 patients were enrolled. After ventilator setting, in
dorsal decubitus and with the surgical fields placed, 4 windows were
explored: subcostal, apical, parasternal and supraesternal. PEEP, tidal
volume, BMI, age, sex were recorded. Each window was evaluated with
a score: 2 points: optimal, 1 point: partial, 0 point: the window can not
be obtained.
Results: The subcostal window could not be obtained in any patient
(surgical fields). The remaining 3 windows on score of 6 possible points
the average was 5.1. The parasternal window obtained a mean of 1.3
points. The most frequent cause of impossibility of access to the
window was the presence of the lung. There was no difference between
subgroups (PEEP > 10 and BMI > 30) and score obtained.
Conclusion: The accessibility to the apical and suprasternal windows
was close to optimal. The parasternal window had smaller scores but
had no relation to the level of PEEP nor the BMI. Limitations: small
number of patients and very limited shelter to extrapolate findings.
Objective: Measure the POCUS impact on use of resources,
morbimortality, diagnoses and therapeutic decisions.
Methods: A prospective controlled-study, in two ICUs with
assignment to two groups: “US-group” with systematic ultrasound
examination of the optic nerve, thorax, heart, abdomen, venous system,
performed at the bedside by trained Intensivist. Another “control
group” was formed with patients attended by Intensivists who did not
perform ultrasound. Approved by Ethics Committee. Informed
consent was obtained.
Results: We included 72 patients, 36 in each group, without
differences in age, sex, APACHE II score, or reason for admission. To 5 days
of admission, there was less utilization of resources in the US group vs
control per patient: chest radiology (2.6 ± 2.0 vs 4.1 ± 3.5, p = 0.01),
ultrasound by specialist (0.6 ± 0.7 vs 1.1 ± 0.7, p = 0.003), computed
tomography (0.5 ± 0.6 vs 0.9 ± 0.7, p = 0.01). The delay to perform
ultrasound was 2.1 ± 1.6 h vs 7.7 ± 6.7, p = 0.0001. The water balance
(WB) was more negative in the US-group at 48 and 96 h (p = 0.01).
There was significant correlation between WB and LVEF (r = 0.6). The
time of mechanical ventilation was lower in US-group (5.1 ± 5.7 days
vs 8.8 ± 9.4) p = 0.04. Mortality was similar. In the US-group there was
a change of diagnosis in 12 cases (33%), pharmacological changes in
15 (42%) and interventional maneuvers in 7 (19%).
Conclusions: Systematic POCUS determines the lesser use of other
diagnostic resources and shorter time of mechanical ventilation,
possibly due to greater accuracy in the treatment of blood volume.
Background: Even though advantages of ultrasound line placement
seem obvious, in our environment recently has begun its use, and only
part of the Intensivists perform it.
Objective: This study aims to compare the degree of difficulty and the
incidence of complications in central venous line placement, with or
without ultrasound.
Methods: Prospective controlled study comparing 125 line placement
in 105 patients, 55 with ultrasound (US-group) and 70 with landmark
guided techniques (blindly, control-group). 121 placement (97%) were
performed by resident physicians.
Results: The majority of accesses were via jugular in both groups, but
with 81% anterior jugular access in the US-group vs. 88% of posterior
jugular in control-group (p = 0.0001).
Difficulties with 3 or more punctures were: 1 case in US-group (2%) vs
23 in the control (32%) p = 0.0001. There were no complications in the
US-group, while in the control group there were 14 (20%): hematomas
6 (9%), arterial puncture 7 (10%), pneumothorax 1 (1.4%), all of which
were by residents of the second or third year. There was also no
relationship with the experience of the operator according to the group,
since only a single eco-guided access was made by resident of the
first year (non-expert). The frequency of obesity was similar for both
groups. There were no cases of catheter-related bacteriemia.
Conclusions: Real-time ultrasonic-guided central line placement in
ICU was associated with less difficulty and absence of complications
that were presented with landmark guided techniques.
Background: Left Ventricular aneurysm (LVA) is one of several
diagnoses to consider when evaluating chest pain in the emergency
department (ED), with electrocardiogram (ECG) findings that are potentially
similar to acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (aSTEMI).
Point-ofcare ultrasound (PoCUS) facilitates in establishing the diagnosis,
preventing unnecessary activation of the catheterization laboratory or
administration of thrombolytics.
Objective: We present an LVA case, illustrating classic ECG findings
and sonographic changes.
Case report: A 79-year-old female with a remote history of myocardial
infarction and percutaneous intervention presented to the ED with
worsening, diffuse chest pain. Her ECG demonstrated an old infarct, but no
acute ischemia. Classic ECG findings for LVA include STEMI in leads V1–
V4 with well-established Q-waves and T-wave inversions in the lateral
leads. Additionally, T-wave amplitude is typically lower than the
hyperacute T-waves seen in aSTEMI, and the ratio of T-wave to QRS amplitude
(TW/QRS) is less than 0.36 in V1–V4. The patient’s physical exam was
unremarkable. PoCUS echocardiogram was performed using a SonoSite
X-porte ultrasound machine with a phased array probe. An impressively
large LVA impeding the right ventricular function was visualized. A
computed tomography thorax with contrast re-demonstrated the 8.7 by
8.5 cm apical LVA. The patient was admitted for further intervention but
subsequently refused surgery and was discharged in stable condition.
Discussion: POCUS is an effective tool in diagnosing LVA to expedite
clinical decision making, especially in cases where the ECG findings
mimic aSTEMI.
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
A15
Use of lung ultrasound (LUS) to predict invasive mechanical
ventilation requirement in patients with onco‑hematology diseases:
a pilot study
Cecilia Gómez Ravetti1,2,3, Thiago Bragança Lana Silveira Ataide1,2, Lidia
Miranda Barreto Mourão1,2,4, Nathália Costa Almeida Pinho1,3, Lucas Vieira
Chagas1,3, Renan Detoffol Bragança1,2,4, Vandack Nobre1,2,3,4
1NIIMI (Núcleo Interdisciplinar de Investigação em Medicina Intensiva),
Belo Horizonte, Brazil; 2Hospital das Clinicas da UFMG, Belo Horizonte,
Brazil; 3Depto Clínica Médica da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade
Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; 4Programa de
Pós‑graduação em Infectologia e Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal
de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A15
Objective: Determine in onco-hematology patients with respiratory
insufficiency if the utilization of LUS predict the requirement of
invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV).
Methods: Observational, prospective study. LUS assessment in
patients with more than 17 years old admitted to the intensive care
unit (ICU) of an University hospital. Four windows were evaluated in
each hemithorax, quantifying the aeration loss from 0 to 3 points,
namely: 0: A lines; 1: well-defined B lines; 2: coalescent B lines; 3:
pulmonary consolidation. The score ranged 0–22.
Results: Nine patients were included and 162 videos were performed.
The median age was 47 (36–61) years and 55.5% were male. The
mortality in ICU was 44.4% and at 28 days was 55.6%. The mean score of
LUS at inclusion in patients who required IMV and in those who did
not require was 11.4 (± 6) and 2 (± 2.8), respectively (p = 0.07). ROC
curve for LUS to predict require IMV at inclusion was 0.96 (p = 0.05;
95% CI 0.83–1.0). Six patients had LUS score at inclusion ≥ 7 and all of
them required IMV (p = 0.08). C reactive protein levels, measured at
days 1 and 2 after inclusion were significantly higher among patients
requiring IMV (p = 0.04).
Conclusion: LUS seems to be an useful tool to predict IMV
requirement among oncohematological patients. These findings must be
confirmed in a larger number of patients.
Introduction: Point of care ultrasonography represents a major
advance in medical practice as it extends the physical examination of
the patient and contributes to a better medical management.
However, its use in Brazil is still restricted and can be improved if its
teaching is implemented in the basic curriculum of the medical course.
Objective: This study aimed to describe the implementation of
ultrasound teaching program in medical school in the Faculdades
Integradas Pitágoras of Montes Claros.
Methods: The sample consisted of 34 medical students from the 11th
period who were attending the discipline Urgency and Emergency.
Theoretical classes were given in 5 lectures and 5 practical classes
about the e-FAST procedure, including the following windows:
pericardial window; hepatorenal and hepatodiaphragmatic interfaces;
splenorenal and splenodiaphragmatic interfaces; suprapubic;
pulmonary and vena cava evaluation. A evaluation form with 64 basic skills
for the use of point of care ultrasound was than, applied.
Results: The students’ average performance was (96.8 ± 3.6)%. 88.2%
of the students had a achieved a result above 95% (> 61 skills correctly
identified), noting more difficulty in describing the changes in cardiac
tamponade and inferior vena cava.
Conclusion: Beyond the need of a future evaluation about the
content fixation by the students, we conclude that the teaching of “point
of care” ultrasound in the undergraduate course is promising and the
students have been able to develop all the basic skills to perform the
procedures.
Objective: To demonstrate the simplicity of ultrasound (US) use, the
prevalence of anatomical variations of the internal jugular vein (IJV)
and evaluate with US visualization the success rate of traditional
puncture of IJV, by a simulation.
Materials and methods: Five medical students, with no prior US
experience, underwent short-term, theoretical-practical, training in
US, and then evaluated the IJV and common carotid artery (CCA) of
105 patients. They performed a simulation of the puncture of the IJV,
following the anatomical references of the traditional technique (TT),
while checking with US if the needle could reach the IJV.
Results: The students’s success rate of the US visualization of the IJV
and CCA was 95%; the IJV, on the right side, was more commonly
found in the anterolateral position in relation to the CCA (38%). On
the left side, the most commonly position observed was the anterior
(36%). Regarding the IJV caliber in relation to the CCA, a great
variability was observed. The success rate in the IJV puncture simulation,
observed with US, by the TT was only 55%.
Conclusion: There is great variability of the anatomical position and
the caliber of the IJV, which reinforces that the ultrasound should
be used to guide the puncture of this central vein, reducing the
complications.
Introduction: The use of ultrasound (US) in clinical practice is an
effective method for performing central venous puncture and emergency
procedures, being safer than traditional techniques and presenting
lower complication rates. In the US, practical US education in medical
residency is mandatory in some areas, but in medical graduation there
is no curriculum model for its practical and low-cost teaching.
Objectives: To develop a low cost didactic protocol for venous access
puncture and venous access, using an animal model.
Methods: An animal model was developed using thawed raw chicken,
olive, cooked quail egg and mushroom (to mimic a nodule to
puncture) and a procedure glove with a conducting gel filled phalanx (to
mimic a blood vessel) that were inserted in the region between the
internal and external animal musculture, through manual dissection.
A portable ultrasound device was used and two checklists were
developed for the step-by-step direction of the technique.
Results: Through the visualization by the US, the animal model was
effective in both techniques presenting an ultrasound image similar to
the human body.
Conclusion: The proposed animal model was effective to reproduce
ultrasound images similar to the human image, being possible to train
puncture and venous access, showing to be a good model to be
reproduced by academic uses.
Keywords: Ultrasound, Animal model, Protocol, Medical education
Introduction: Ultrasonography is regarded as an indispensable
element for physicians who work in trauma care and emergency. The
training of professionals working in this field is considered as a
determinant for the correct decision making in trauma and emergency.
Objective: Demonstrate the importance of the use of
ultrasonography for the evaluation of the polytraumatized patient
Materials and methods: 824 ultrasound exams were performed in a
period between June and November of 2016 in which it was evaluated
its use in the care of the polytraumatized patient
Results: Airway: 135 US. 89 intubation guides (65%). 14 (10.37%)
guides for surgical access. Ventilation: closed thoracic trauma. 183 US.
Pleural fluid 117 (63.9%) pneumothorax. 53 (28.9%). Trauma open. 97
US. Penetrating wound without pleural lesion: 25 (25.7%)—confirmed
by surgery: 11. Pneumothorax: 67 (69.07%). Pneumothorax and pleural
fluid: 5 (5.15%). Abdomen: trauma closed: 239 US FAST−: 127 (53.13%)
FAST+: 95 (39.7%). FAST− and Vena CAVA Rating: 17 (7.11%).
Penetrating trauma: 67 US. FAST− and peritoneal indemnity: 47. Laparoscopic
confirmation: 39 (82.9%). FAST+ and peritoneal indemnity: 20 (29.8%)
neurological deficit: 83 US. Altered pupil reflex 13 (15.66%) optic nerve
altered: 7 (8.4%) deviation cerebral mediated line: 3 (3.6%).
Assessment of vascular axes, compartmental syndrome: 145 US. Decreased
pulses: 53 (36.5%). Vascular commitment: 17 (11.7%)
Conclusion: The incorporation of anatomical and ultrasonographic
knowledge favors the quality of care of physicians who perform in
extreme situations. The correct use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic
tool allows to improve the response times and decision making of
surgical procedures.
A20
Utilization of ultrasonography as a tool to guide for the
improvement in the implementation of central venous accesses
Cristian Flores, Maria Soledad Ferrante, Gustavo Vassia, Carolina Brofman;
Victor Ortiz, Rubén Daniel Algieri
Hospital Aeronáutico Central‑Fuerza Aérea Argentina, Buenos Aires,
Argentina
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A20
Introduction: The use of ultrasound to perform central venous access
allows the recognition of anatomical structures and the constant guide
to the success, generating a benefit for the patient and the surgeon.
Objective: To determine the usefulness of ultrasonography as a
guiding tool in performing surgical procedures.
Materials and methods: A prospective descriptive and observational
study was carried out. Training through workshops to surgeons in
the use of ultrasonography for the identification of anatomical
structures and the performance of central venous accesses. The strokes
performed in the period from January to June of 2017 were analyzed,
using evaluation charts to contemplate the mentioned skills.
Results: There were 95 central venous access, all internal jugular
venous access; 80 (84.21%) were performed under ultrasound
guidance while the remaining 15 (15.78%) were not. Of those made with
US, the anatomical structures of the neck were identified in 100% (80).
Under ultrasound guidance, 50 (62.5%) required 1 single puncture, 25
(31.5%) 2 punctures and the remaining 5 (6.25%) 3 trials. As for those
performed without US 13 (86.66%) were performed with 3 punctures
and the remaining 2 (13.33%) with more than 3. It was evident in those
performed with US a considerable reduction of surgical times.
Conclusion: The use of ultrasonography as a guiding tool for central
venous access allows improving the efficiency of procedures,
improving the quality of care.
Study objectives: Emergency ultrasound (EMBU) improves clinical
decision-making, patient satisfaction, and time to disposition. This
study investigates physicians’ knowledge, attitudes and practices
about performance and documentation of EMBU to confirm
intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) in Emergency Department (ED) patients at risk for
ectopic pregnancy.
Methods: An anonymous, web-based survey was sent to
attending and resident physicians in an academic, urban ED with an annual
census of 65,000. Twenty EMBU questions evaluated respondents:
experience (years), comfort level, knowledge about reimbursement,
documentation requirements and preferred compliance prompting.
Results: Fifty-nine of 98 physicians (60%, 26/52 attending and 33/46
residents) reported 0–20 years’ EMBU experience (median 4). Mean
scores (0–100, uncomfortable to completely comfortable) for EMBU
performance and interpretation were 81 (SD 23) and 80 (SD 18)
respectively. Ninety percent agree EMBU enhances patient care; 92%
that it accelerates disposition and diagnoses and 88% that patients
appreciate it. Twenty-three percent are unaware that EMBU is a billable
procedure that can generate ED revenue. Inadequate documentation
methods were reported by 54% but 49% assert they use a template
designed for billing compliance. Thirty-seven percent report that
Electronic Medical Record (EMR) prompts may improve documentation
compliance while 64% appreciate sonographer-educator presence.
Conclusion: Most physicians are comfortable with EMBU for IUP and
recognize the clinical benefits. Reimbursement and documentation
knowledge is less prevalent. Education, promoting documentation
templates and sonographer-educator support may improve
documentation and reimbursement in the future.
Background: Cardiac arrest (CA) is one of the major causes of death
worldwide. Mortality is improving but neurological prognosis remains
bad. Cerebral hypoperfusion and hypoxia are the main factors
determining neurological outcome. Adequate cerebral perfusion is one of
the main therapeutic goals and it is mainly based on high quality CPR.
Unfortunately, there are no validated methods to monitor chest
compression performance and effective cerebral blood flow during CPR.
Study design: Prospective cohort study.
Objective: MCA and CCA evaluation (peak systolic [Vs] & end-diastolic
[Vd] velocity, pulsatility index [PI]) during CPR (manual vs mechanical);
relationship between MCA and CCA patterns and neurological
outcome using Cerebral Performance Categories scale.
Methods: Inclusion criteria: all patients with non-traumatic CA
undergoing CPR. After clinical diagnosis of CA, beginning of CPR and airways
management, we perform MCA and CCA color Doppler evaluation.
Examination is repeated, whenever possible, during all CPR steps and
if any clinical condition variations (i.e. ROSC, death) occur.
Results: we describe a case of patient underwent sudden CA. MCA
and CCA evaluation showed forward-flow during compression and
back-flow pattern during chest release; during CPR, MCA profile
was brain death-like pattern; during clinical pulse check evaluation
(PEA, no pulse), anterograde flow pattern was registered with very
poor velocities. When ROSC occurred, hyperemic MCA pattern was
obtained. After 3 days the patient was awake with no brain damage.
Conclusion: Color Doppler monitoring may provide information on
CPR quality and it might be useful for early detection of ROSC and
prognostic stratification of patients with CA.
A23
Priapism: point of care Doppler ultrasound aspects
Marina Marazzi, María Fernanda Barbui, Gabriela Da Campo, Miguel
Montorfano
Department of Ultrasound and Doppler, Hospital de Emergencias “Dr.
Clemente Álvarez” (HECA), Avenida Pellegrini 3205, Rosario, Argentina
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A23
Background: Priapism is a prolonged, pathologic erection, lasting
more than 4 h. There are 2 main types: ischemic or low-flow priapism
and non-ischemic or high-flow priapism. Ischemic type is an
emergency. If untreated can lead to permanent damage, corporal fibrosis
and potential erectile disfunction. Color and pulse Doppler can help in
the rapid differentiation of these two types of priapism.
Objective: To present 3 cases and review the utility of Doppler
ultrasound in the triage of patients with priapism.
Cases series: 3 patients with priapism were evaluated in August 2017:
2 were caused by the use of non legal drugs and one occurred after
an instrumentation of the urethra. All the 3 patients present low flow
ischemic priapism and immediate treatment was required.
Discussion: Doppler ultrasound can be useful in the differentiation of
high vs low flow priapism. Patients with low-flow priapism can have
thrombosis of the corpora cavernosa or corpus spongiosum and
decreased or absent of color flow or spectral Doppler in the
cavernosal arteries with increased resistance Index if flow is present. Flow in
the superficial dorsal vein and increase resistance index in the dorsal
artery may be present. Low flow priapism represents 95% of the cases.
Patients with high flow priapism can have normal or elevated arterial
Doppler velocities. Flow suggesting arteriovenous flow fistula may be
present. Usually occurs after a local trauma.
Conclusion: Doppler ultrasound is a rapid method to distinguish
between low flow and high flow priapism and helps in the acute
decision making process.
A24
Point of care ultrasound in the initial evaluation and triage
of scrotal trauma
Maria Fernanda Barbui, Marina Marazzi, Gabriela Da Campo, Cecilia Ciarlo,
Leonardo Vera, Miguel Montorfano
Department of Ultrasound and Doppler, Hospital de Emergencias “Dr.
Clemente Álvarez” (HECA), Avenida Pellegrini 3205, Rosario, Argentina
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A24
Background: Scrotal trauma represents less than 1% of all trauma
injuries. Ultrasound is an essential tool for the initial evaluation of
these patients. It permits to rapidly diagnose the presence of
hydrocele, haematocele, intra or extra testicular hematoma, contusion and
disruption of the tunica albuginea.
Objective: Evaluate the utility of ultrasound in the triage of patients
for medical or surgical management.
Methods: A prospective observational study between January 2015
and February 2017 was performed. 13 patients were evaluated: 9
with penetrating trauma (gunshot wound) and 4 with blunt trauma (1
caused by fall of height and 3 caused by a road traffic accident)
Results: In 8 patients (7 with penetrating wounds and 1 with blunt
trauma) US showed diffuse heterogeneous texture, contour
irregularity and disruption of the tunica albuginea. 5 patients (3 with
penetrating wounds and 2 with blunt trauma) had normal US aspect (2), small
amount of peritesticular fluid (1), and small intratesticular hematoma (2)
All the 8 patients with diffuse heterogeneous testicular parenchyma,
contour irregularity and disruption of the tunica albugínea were sent
to the OR: testicular rupture was confirmed in all cases. The other 5
patients underwent medical observation and ultrasound follow up
with ultrasound until the complete resolution (sensitivity and
specificity of 100% for the diagnosis of testicular rupture).
Conclusions: US is a very sensitive and specific tool for the selection
of patients with testicular rupture that require immediate surgical
exploration.
A25
Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) evaluating an unusual case
of edematous‑ascitic syndrome (EAS)
Matías Brizuela, Mariana Lía Brizuela, Marcos Aqcuavita, Javier Buchanan,
José Alejandro Bujedo
Unidad de Terapia Intensiva, Sanatorio Privado del Interior S.R.L., Rio
Ceballos, Córdoba, Argentina
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A25
Objective: To describe the multifaceted use of POCUS in the
evaluation of a patient with EAS.
Case report: A 70-year-old man was transferred to critical care unit
suspected of having decompensated heart failure. History of
arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation (AF) and
chronic renal failure. Ex-alcoholic drinker and severe smoker. Stable
hemodynamically, tricuspid focus regurgitation murmur, lower limb
edema, tension ascites and bilateral pleural effusion. Bedside
ultrasonography evidenced dilatation of right cavities, 2 echogenic masses
occupying part of the right atrium and ventricle, non-mobile, rounded,
regular suggestive of thrombus vs. tumors. Moderate pulmonary
hypertension. Laminar pericardial effusion. Absence of deep venous
thrombosis. Bilateral pleural effusion, bilateral B lines. Liver with 2
irregular and vascularized masses occupying the right lobe, right
adrenal gland nodule, splenomegaly, small kidneys, stones in the
gallbladder and important ascites. 4000 ml of ascitic fluid was evacuated
under ultrasound guidance, Albumin Gradient Suero-Ascites = 1.8.
Anticoagulation was started with intravenous unfractionated heparin
for 5 days and then continued with enoxaparin. Tomography scan also
showed mediastinal and retroperitoneal adenomegalies, and presence
of nodular image in the lower left lobe of the lung. Alpha-fetoprotein
19.9 UI/ml, serology virus human immunodeficiency, hepatitis B and C
negative. Ascitic fluid was negative for malignancy. Due to associated
comorbidities surgical management was ruled out and hepatic biopsy
was planned. During hospitalization he presented sudden death.
Conclusion: POCUS provided diagnosis of possible etiologies and
complications and served as guided of invasive procedures.
Consent for publication: The authors confirm that written informed
consent was obtained for publication.
Introduction: Critical patients often require a central venous catheter
(CVC), there is experience in USG cannulation of the jugular and
femoral vein. But there is a group of patients who, due to their previous
condition, multiple punctures, hypovolemic status, or presence of
tracheotomy, the cannulation of these EG accesses is difficult.
Objectives: Retrospective SC USG catheterization of brachicephalic
vein between 2013 and 2017.
Materials: Patients with SC USG catheterization of the brachiocephalic
vein from March 2013 to July 2017 installed in Pediatric Critical Care
Unit.
Results: A total of 94 procedures were analyzed: 47% were younger
than 1 year, female gender predominated (54%), 30% were under 5
kilos; Main diagnoses: Low Respiratory Infection and
Nephro-Urological Pathologies (34 and 16%); 25% of the patients had tracheotomy.
Thirty-seven percent of the patients did not require invasive airway
intervention. The most frequently chosen side was the left side (57%),
the vast majority was achieved at the first attempt by 77%, with a total
success rate of 99%. There was an arterial puncture.
Comments: SC USG catheterization of the brachiocephalic vein in
critical pediatric patients is a safe, rapid technique with few
complications. Very useful in small patients, in spontaneous breathing, with
tracheotomy and in non-invasive mechanical ventilation.
Introduction: CVC echo-guided puncture has improved the success
rate and decreased mechanical complications. The central accesses in
vessels of the neck without ultrasound in this group is not an
alternative due to the complications given the size of structures and the
difficulty of classic anatomical repairs.
Objectives: Demonstrate Efficacy and Safety in transient echo-guided
CVC installation in premature infants less than 1500 g hospitalized in
the Neonatology Unit of our Hospital (NICU).
Materials: Retrospective review of 2 cohorts (< 1500 and > 1500 g).
Transient central venous catheters installed in the NICU between
March 2015 and July 2017 guided echoes. Statistical analysis of both
cohorts (NBFR < 1500 and NBST > 1500) was performed: the eleventh
hypothesis was performed with Fisher’s exact test, Wilcoxon Mann–
Whitney test or Student’s T according to variable distribution
comparing less than 1500 g and 1500 or more grams, with a significance level
of p < 0.05; to assess risk of increased punctures, they were moderated
under Poisson regression with incidence risk ratio (IRR), 95%
confidence interval and p value, performing univariate for each
independent variable recorded.
Results: There were 42 procedures with a median age of 25 days, with
a median weight of 1962 g: range of 677–4500 g. There were 2
frustoced procedures (1 in each group) Overall success rate 61.9, 31 and
2.4% at the first, second and third attempt. There was an arterial
puncture as a complication. When comparing both groups there was no
statistical difference there was no difference in numbers of punctures
in achieving access nor in complications.
Comments: The use of ultrasound allows channeling in PTNB < 1500 g
with a high success rate (95.3%). The results are similar to those
described in the literature. This technique is safe and effective for
professionals with CVC eco-guided experience
A28
Poor correlation between IVC variability and haematocrit level
to determine intravascular volume status in spontaneous breathing
adult with dengue fever
Adi Osman1, Azma Haryaty Ahmad1, Seri Rohayu Neow Hanzah1, Emilia
Mohtar Razali2
1Department of Trauma and Emergency Medicine, Raja Permaisuri
Bainun Hospital, 30450, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia; 2Department of Trauma
and Emergency Medicine, National University Hospital, Cheras, 56000,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Critical Ultrasound Journal 2017, 9(Supp 1):A28
Objectives: Detection of intravascular depletion is paramount in early
assessment of DF. We aimed to focus on the value of Inferior Vena Cava
(IVC) variability as an intravascular volume assessment in
spontaneously breathing adult dengue patient with or without warning signs in
correlation with haematocrit (HCT) level.
Methods: This was a single centre prospective cross-sectional study.
The primary outcome was to measure the inferior vena cava
variability in correlation with haematocrit level in predicting the intravascular
volume status in DF with or without warning signs. The secondary
outcome was the survival and complications after 24 h.
Results: Two hundred and two dengue patients were analyzed.
There was a poor correlation between diameter of IVC during
expiration (IVCe), IVC during inspiration (IVCi) and IVC collapsibility index
(IVCci) with HCT level in patients with and without warning signs
(r = − 0.251, − 0.268 and 0.209 respectively) with p < 0.01. IVCe and
IVCi had a significant negative correlation in DF with warning signs
(r = − 0.369 and − 0.415 respectively) with p < 0.01. And zero
correlation between IVCe and IVCi with HCT level in DF without warning signs
(p > 0.5). No adverse effects were recorded within the extrapolated
time.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrates poor relationship between IVC
diameter and HCT level in DF. The usage of IVC variability in assessing
intravascular volume status in haemodynamically stable DF patients
with or without warning sign can be misleading.
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