Free fluid in Morison's pouch on bedside ultrasound predicts need for operative intervention in suspected ectopic pregnancy

POCUS the Pelvis: A Case Series of Timely Diagnoses in Pediatric Patients With Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a frequent presenting complaint in the pediatric emergency department (PED). Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can expedite the diagnosis and management of patients in the PED with abdominal pain. We present a series of 6 patient cases in which a "POCUS the pelvis" approach expedited diagnosis of undifferentiated abdominal pain in the PED, and thus facilitated definitive management.

Clinical Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Point-of-care ultrasound is a useful tool in the evaluation of women with pelvic complaints in the emergency department. Transabdominal and transvaginal approaches may be employed to assess a variety of obstetric or gynecologic pathologies.

Guidance for clinical practice using emergency and point-of-care ultrasonography

Owing to the miniaturization of diagnostic ultrasound scanners and their spread of their bedside use, ultrasonography has been actively utilized in emergency situations. Ultrasonography performed by medical personnel with focused approaches at the bedside for clinical decision-making and improving the quality of invasive procedures is now called point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS). The concept of POCUS has spread worldwide; however, in Japan, formal clinical guidance concerning POCUS is lacking, except for the application of focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) and ultrasound-guided central venous cannulation. The Committee for the Promotion of POCUS in the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM) has often discussed improving the quality of acute care using POCUS, and the "Clinical Guidance for Emergency and Point-of-Care Ultrasonography" was finally established with the endorsement of JAAM. The background, targets for acute care physicians, rationale based on published articles, and integrated application were mentioned in this guidance. The core points include the fundamental principles of ultrasound, airway, chest, cardiac, abdominal, and deep venous ultrasound, ultrasound-guided procedures, and the usage of ultrasound based on symptoms. Additional points, which are currently being considered as potential core points in the future, have also been widely mentioned. This guidance describes the overview and future direction of ultrasonography for acute care physicians and can be utilized for emergency ultrasound education. We hope this guidance will contribute to the effective use of ultrasonography in acute care settings in Japan.

Automated detection and localization of pericardial effusion from point-of-care cardiac ultrasound examination

Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) exam is the standard of care for pericardial and abdominal free fluid detection in emergency medicine. Despite its life saving potential, FAST is underutilized due to requiring clinicians with appropriate training and practice. To aid ultrasound interpretation, the role of artificial intelligence has been studied, while leaving room for improvement in localization information and computation time. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a deep learning approach to rapidly and accurately identify both the presence and location of pericardial effusion on point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) exams. Each cardiac POCUS exam is analyzed image-by-image via the state-of-the-art YoloV3 algorithm and pericardial effusion presence is determined from the most confident detection. We evaluate our approach over a dataset of POCUS exams (cardiac component of FAST and ultrasound), comprising 37 cases with pericardial effusion and 39 negative controls. Our algorithm attains 92% specificity and 89% sensitivity in pericardial effusion identification, outperforming existing deep learning approaches, and localizes pericardial effusion by 51% Intersection Over Union with ground-truth annotations. Moreover, image processing demonstrates only 57 ms latency. Experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of rapid and accurate pericardial effusion detection from POCUS exams for physician overread.

Diagnosing ectopic pregnancy using Bayes theorem: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To verify the accuracy of an online algorithm using Bayes' theorem for diagnosing ectopic pregnancy (EP) using human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), ultrasound, and clinical data in a real cohort.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Gynecologic emergency unit in a tertiary teaching hospital.

PATIENT(S)

First-trimester pregnant women who attended the gynecologic emergency unit for any reason. Those who had <13 weeks of pregnancy confirmed by a recent positive pregnancy test; a digital image or electronic report of transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) obtained from hospital database; and a follow-up with a pathology report or a clinical resolution of a confirmed pregnancy were included in the study. Clinical signs and symptoms, the presence of risk factors for EP, the TVUS findings in each consultation, and the hCG levels were independent variables obtained from the electronic medical records. From these data, the pretest probability, based on the clinical presentation and risk factors, and the likelihood ratio for each variable were calculated for their use in the algorithm, yielding a posttest probability.

INTERVENTION

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The accuracy of the online algorithm to identify cases of EP using clinical signs and symptoms, the presence of risk factors for EP, the TVUS findings in each consultation, and the hCG levels. The main outcome was EP, confirmed either by pathology report or by the presence of fetal heartbeat or gestational sac outside the uterine cavity.

RESULT(S)

Between January 1, 2009 and December 27, 2016, 2,495 women were analyzed, and the algorithm was applied to 2,185 of them. The incidence of EP was 8.5% (212/2,495); 310 women were excluded because they were submitted to surgery with decision thresholds <95%. The algorithm was applied to 2,185 women. Just one case remained inconclusive after 3 consultations, and it was considered as an error in prediction. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values (95% confidence interval) of the algorithm were 98.9% (96.1%-99.8%), 98.9% (98.3%-99.2%), and 98.9% (98.3%-99.2%), respectively.

CONCLUSION(S)

The accuracy of the Bayesian algorithm to confirm or rule out EP is excellent. Online Nomogram https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1jStXlMBjbPyDf6_W0deKGKQLZHU5EFAe8rLhNVPuJuY/edit?usp=sharing.

Artificial Intelligence in Emergency Radiology: Where Are We Going?

Emergency Radiology is a unique branch of imaging, as rapidity in the diagnosis and management of different pathologies is essential to saving patients' lives. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has many potential applications in emergency radiology: firstly, image acquisition can be facilitated by reducing acquisition times through automatic positioning and minimizing artifacts with AI-based reconstruction systems to optimize image quality, even in critical patients; secondly, it enables an efficient workflow (AI algorithms integrated with RIS-PACS workflow), by analyzing the characteristics and images of patients, detecting high-priority examinations and patients with emergent critical findings. Different machine and deep learning algorithms have been trained for the automated detection of different types of emergency disorders (e.g., intracranial hemorrhage, bone fractures, pneumonia), to help radiologists to detect relevant findings. AI-based smart reporting, summarizing patients' clinical data, and analyzing the grading of the imaging abnormalities, can provide an objective indicator of the disease's severity, resulting in quick and optimized treatment planning. In this review, we provide an overview of the different AI tools available in emergency radiology, to keep radiologists up to date on the current technological evolution in this field.

Young female with abdominal pain and intra-abdominal free fluid: The risk of confirmation bias associated with point-of-care ultrasound

Confirmation bias is an ever-present risk to the rapid decision-making required in emergency departments (EDs). We present a case of a young woman who was brought to ED by ambulance with hypotension, syncope and vaginal bleeding, with a presumptive pre-hospital diagnosis of ruptured ectopic pregnancy. On arrival in ED, she was found to have intra-abdominal free fluid on bedside ultrasound. This finding could have been used by clinicians to confirm their suspicion of a ruptured ectopic; however, with further investigations, it was found that anaphylaxis was the most likely cause of the patient's symptoms. This case highlights that point-of-care ultrasound findings can play a potentially dangerous role in confirmation bias and that we should maintain an open mind when making a diagnosis by treating the patient, rather than the ultrasound picture.

An Extra Set of Intelligent Eyes: Application of Artificial Intelligence in Imaging of Abdominopelvic Pathologies in Emergency Radiology

Imaging in the emergent setting carries high stakes. With increased demand for dedicated on-site service, emergency radiologists face increasingly large image volumes that require rapid turnaround times. However, novel artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms may assist trauma and emergency radiologists with efficient and accurate medical image analysis, providing an opportunity to augment human decision making, including outcome prediction and treatment planning. While traditional radiology practice involves visual assessment of medical images for detection and characterization of pathologies, AI algorithms can automatically identify subtle disease states and provide quantitative characterization of disease severity based on morphologic image details, such as geometry and fluid flow. Taken together, the benefits provided by implementing AI in radiology have the potential to improve workflow efficiency, engender faster turnaround results for complex cases, and reduce heavy workloads. Although analysis of AI applications within abdominopelvic imaging has primarily focused on oncologic detection, localization, and treatment response, several promising algorithms have been developed for use in the emergency setting. This article aims to establish a general understanding of the AI algorithms used in emergent image-based tasks and to discuss the challenges associated with the implementation of AI into the clinical workflow.

Use of Methotrexate in Gynecologic and Obstetric Practice: What the Radiologist Needs to Know

Methotrexate (MTX) is the primary pharmaceutical agent that is used for management of disorders arising from trophoblastic tissue. Its widespread international use is mostly attributable to its noninvasive, safe, and effective characteristics as a treatment option for ectopic pregnancy (EP) and gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), with the large added benefit of fertility preservation. Although the effects of MTX usage are well documented in the gynecologic and obstetric literature, there is a scarcity of radiologic literature on the subject. Depending on the type of EP, the route of MTX administration and dosage may vary. US plays an essential role in the diagnosis and differentiation of various types of EPs, pregnancy-related complications, and complications related to MTX therapy, as well as the assessment of eligibility criteria for MTX usage. A knowledge of expected imaging findings following MTX treatment, including variability in echogenicity and shape of the EP, size fluctuations, changes in vascularity and gestational sac content, and the extent of hemoperitoneum, is essential for appropriate patient management and avoidance of unnecessary invasive procedures. A recognition of sonographic findings associated with pregnancy progression and complications such as tubal or uterine rupture, severe hemorrhage, septic abortion, and development of arteriovenous communications ensures prompt patient surgical management. The authors discuss the use of MTX in the treatment of disorders arising from trophoblastic tissue (namely EP and GTD), its mechanism of action, its route of administration, and various treatment regimens. The authors also provide a focused discussion of the role of US in the detection and diagnosis of EP and GTD, the assessment of the eligibility criteria for MTX use, and the identification of the sonographic findings seen following MTX treatment, with specific emphasis on imaging findings associated with MTX treatment success and failure. Online supplemental material is available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2021.

Comparing Time to Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy Based on Type of Ultrasound Performed: A Retrospective Inquiry

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage from ruptured ectopic pregnancy is the leading cause of first trimester mortality in North America.

OBJECTIVES

Our objective was to compare patients with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy who had an emergency department (ED) point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) with those who received a radiology department-performed ultrasound (RADUS). Four time intervals were measured: ED arrival to ultrasound interpretation, obstetric consultation, operating room (OR) arrival, and ultrasound interpretation to OR arrival.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with ruptured ectopic pregnancy seen between February 2012 and September 2018 at an urban tertiary care hospital. Patients who received an ultrasound in the ED, went directly to the OR, and had confirmed rupture were included.

RESULTS

Of 262 patients diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy during the study period, 36 (14%) were ruptured and 32 were enrolled. Comparing times between PoCUS (n = 10) and RADUS (n = 22) groups, the mean time from ED arrival to ultrasound interpretation was 15 vs. 138 min (difference 123, 95% confidence interval [CI] 88-158), from ED arrival to obstetric consultation was 35 vs. 150 min (difference 115, 95% CI 59-171), from ED arrival to OR arrival was 160 vs. 381 min (difference 222, 95% CI 124-320), and from ultrasound interpretation to OR arrival was 145 vs. 243 min (difference 98, 95% CI 12-184).

CONCLUSION

ED patients with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy who received a PoCUS first had shorter times to diagnosis, obstetric consultation, and OR arrival compared with those who received RADUS.

Diagnostic Applications of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Point-of-care ultrasound has become an essential part of pediatric emergency medicine training and practice. It can have significant clinical benefits, including improving diagnostic accuracy and decreasing length of stay, and does not require radiation exposure for patients. In this review, we summarize the current diagnostic point-of-care ultrasound applications in pediatric emergency medicine, their evidence, and techniques.

Impact of point-of-care ultrasound on treatment time for ectopic pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is useful in the evaluation of early pregnancy by confirming intrauterine pregnancy and recognizing hemorrhage from ectopic pregnancy. We sought to determine whether transabdominal POCUS by itself or in conjunction with consultative radiology ultrasound (RADUS), reduces Emergency Department (ED) treatment time for patients with ectopic pregnancy requiring operative care, when compared to RADUS alone. A secondary objective was to determine whether the incorporation of POCUS reduces time to operative care for patients with ruptured ectopic pregnancy specifically, when compared to RADUS alone.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of patients admitted for operative management of ectopic pregnancy. We excluded patients with known ectopic pregnancy and/or imaging prior to arriving to the treatment area, found not to have an ectopic pregnancy, or did not undergo operative care. Descriptive statistics, classical and nonparametric statistical analysis, and linear regression were performed.

RESULTS

There were 220 patients admitted with ectopic pregnancy, 111 met exclusion criteria, yielding 109 for analysis. Of 109, 36 received POCUS (23/36 also had RADUS), while 73 received RADUS only. Among the POCUS group 31/36 (86%) were classified as ruptured versus 47/73 (64%) in the RADUS group. The average ED treatment time in the POCUS group for all admitted ectopic pregnancies was 157.9 min (standard deviation [SD] 101.3) versus 206.3 min (SD 76.6) in the RADUS group (p = 0.0141). The median time to operating room (OR) for ruptured ectopic pregnancies was 203.0 min (interquartile range [IQR] 159.0) in the POCUS group versus 293.0 min (IQR 139.0) in the RADUS group (p = 0.0002). Regression analysis of the primary outcome was limited by multiple interactions and sample size. When controlling for race, positive shock index and ED visit time, POCUS was found to be associated with a significantly shorter time to OR among ruptured ectopic pregnancies compared to RADUS (p = 0.0052).

CONCLUSION

Compared to RADUS alone, incorporation of POCUS was associated with significantly faster ED treatment time for all ectopic pregnancies and significantly faster time to OR for ruptured ectopic pregnancies, even when combined with RADUS. When controlling for clinical differences, time to OR was still faster for patients who underwent POCUS. The integration of POCUS should be considered to expedite care for patients with ectopic pregnancy requiring operative care.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound Facilitates Management of Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy

ABSTRACT

Abdominal pain in the pregnant adolescent presents a diagnostic dilemma with potential life-threatening etiologies. We present a case where point-of-care ultrasound was used to facilitate diagnosis and expedite lifesaving management of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. We further review the technique and literature for first-trimester transabdominal point-of-care ultrasound.

Point-of-care ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology

BACKGROUND

The rapid technical development and portability of ultrasound systems over recent years has had a profound impact on the area of point-of-care-ultrasound (POCUS), both in general medicine and in obstetrics and gynecology. The use of POCUS enables the clinician to perform the ultrasound scan either at the medical office or the patient's bedside and used as an extension of the physical examination. Real-time images can immediately be correlated with the patient's symptoms, and any changes in a (critical) patient's condition can be more rapidly detected.

POCUS IN OBGYN

POCUS is also suitable for time-critical scenarios, and depending on the situation and its dynamics, the course and results of any therapy may be observed in real time. POCUS should be considered to be a routine extension of practice for most OB/GYN clinicians as it can give immediate answers to what could be life-threatening situations for the mother and/or baby. With its proven usefulness, the applications and use of POCUS should be incorporated in teaching programs for medical students, OBGYN residents and emergency physicians.

The Role of Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) in Orthopaedic Emergency Diagnostics

Ultrasound has been described as the "stethoscope" of the radiologist; its ability to aid in clinical diagnosis with both static and dynamic imaging has allowed fast and accurate diagnosis. However, traditionally unlike a stethoscope, a large and bulky ultrasound machine made it difficult to use portably in a hospital environment where patients can be scattered across a hospital. With the development of innovative ultrasound technology, Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) can readily be carried by a clinician to make a quick and timely diagnosis. In this review article we look at the uses of PoCUS within orthopaedic emergencies. Diagnosis in orthopaedics often requires further imaging beyond history taking, clinical examination and plain radiographs. In these cases PoCUS can be useful for ruling out occult fractures, diagnosing joint effusions and tendon ruptures. By aiding a speedy diagnosis, we can reduce unnecessary immobilisation, reduce inpatient stays, introduce early mobilisation and reduce harm to patients. With PoCUS becoming increasingly cheaper and more portable we feel this really can become the stethoscope of an orthopaedic surgeon.

Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy with an Intrauterine Device: Case Report and Sonographic Considerations

INTRODUCTION

Ectopic pregnancy carries a high morbidity and mortality; patients are at risk for rupture and life-threatening hemorrhage.

CASE REPORT

We present a rare case of ruptured abdominal ectopic pregnancy in a patient with a well-positioned intrauterine device (IUD) and discuss the diagnostic utility that transabdominal point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can have when performed at the bedside.

CONCLUSION

While pregnancy with an IUD in place is rare, when it is encountered the emergency provider should maintain a high degree of suspicion for extrauterine pregnancy and perform prompt evaluation for hemorrhagic shock using diagnostic POCUS.

Morison's pouch: anatomical review and evaluation of pathologies and disease spread on cross-sectional imaging

The peritoneum is a complex structure. Having a better understanding of this complex anatomy will enable the radiologist to accurately assess and diagnose the wide range of intra-abdominal pathologies. In this article, we review the anatomy, boundaries, and connections of Morison's pouch. In addition, we discuss the incidence and development of common pathological conditions within Morison's pouch and the role of multiple imaging modalities in assessment and diagnosis of these conditions.

Acute pelvic pain following miscarriage heterotopic pregnancy must be excluded: case report

Background

Heterotopic pregnancies are increasing in prevalence and this case highlights the importance of excluding the diagnosis in patients with pelvic pain following miscarriage. A known pre-existing intrauterine pregnancy can be falsely reassuring and delay the diagnosis of a potentially life-threatening concurrent ectopic pregnancy.

Case presentation

In this report, we describe a case of spontaneous heterotopic pregnancy in a woman who had initially presented with pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, and was diagnosed on pelvic ultrasound with a missed miscarriage; a non-viable intrauterine pregnancy. She re-presented 7 days later with worsening pelvic pain and bleeding, and a repeat pelvic ultrasound identified a ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy in addition to an incomplete miscarriage of the previously identified intrauterine pregnancy. She underwent an emergency laparoscopy where a ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy was confirmed.

Conclusion

Being a time critical diagnosis with the potential for an adverse outcome, it is important that the emergency physician considers heterotopic pregnancy as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with pelvic pain following a recent miscarriage. The same principle should apply to pelvic pain in the context of a known viable intrauterine pregnancy or recent termination of pregnancy. A combination of clinical assessment, beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels, point of care ultrasound and formal transvaginal ultrasound must be utilized together in these situations to explicitly exclude heterotopic pregnancy.

Ultrasound of the First Trimester

Ultrasound is the imaging study of choice for detection and full characterization of early pregnancies based on its accuracy, low cost, safety profile, and abundant availability. This article reviews the goals and utility of first-trimester ultrasound in gestation localization, viability determination, and abnormal pregnancies, including ectopic implantation, retained products, and molar pregnancy.

Focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) for the regional anesthesiologist and pain specialist

This article in our point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) series is dedicated to the role the focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) exam plays for the regional anesthesiologist and pain specialists in the perioperative setting. The FAST exam is a well-established and extensively studied PoCUS exam in both surgical and emergency medicine literature with over 20 years demonstrating its benefit in identifying the presence of free fluid in the abdomen following trauma. However, only recently has the FAST exam been shown to be beneficial to the anesthesiologist in the perioperative setting as a means to identify the extravasation of free fluid into the abdomen from the hip joint following hip arthroscopy. In this article, we will describe how to obtain the basic FAST views (subcostal four-chamber view, perihepatic right upper quadrant view, perisplenic left upper quadrant view, and pelvic view in the longitudinal and short axis) as well as cover the relevant sonoanatomy. We will describe pathological findings seen with the FAST exam, primarily free fluid in the peritoneal space as well as in the pericardial sac. As is the case with any PoCUS skill, the application evolves with understanding and utilization by new clinical specialties. Although this article will provide clinical examples of where the FAST exam is beneficial to the regional anesthesiologist and pain specialist, it also serves as an introduction to this powerful PoCUS skill in order to encourage clinical practitioners to expand the application of the FAST exam within the scope of regional anesthesia and pain management practice.

Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy in the Presence of an Intrauterine Device

Ruptured ectopic pregnancy is the leading cause of first trimester maternal mortality. The diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy should always be suspected in patients with abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding or syncope. While the use of an intrauterine device (IUD) markedly reduces the incidence of intrauterine pregnancy, it does not confer equal protection from the risk of ectopic pregnancy. In this report we discuss the case of a female patient who presented with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy and hemoperitoneum despite a correctly positioned IUD.

Use of Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma Examination Skills in the Evaluation of Non-trauma Patients

Study objectives

Although the focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) examination was initially developed for rapid evaluation of trauma patients, the basic skillset required to perform a FAST examination provides valuable information that may alter a non-trauma patient’s clinical course. The objective of this study was to determine the utility of the FAST examination in the emergency department management of non-trauma patients.

Methods

Cases in which the FAST examination was used to direct care in non-trauma patients were retrospectively reviewed. Following the completion of the patient's care, emergency physicians were asked to complete a questionnaire indicating how information from the FAST examination was utilized to direct care of their non-trauma patients.

Results

A total of 63 non-trauma cases with average age of 48 years (range 16-94 years) were enrolled. The FAST examination positively impacted care in 57/63 (90.5%) cases. In 18/63 (28.6%) cases, the patient’s ultimate disposition changed because of FAST examination findings. In 9/63 (14.3%) cases, paracentesis was avoided by obtaining a FAST examination, and in 8/63 cases (12.7%) paracentesis was performed due to FAST examination results. In 16/63 (25.4%) cases, anticipated imaging changed due to FAST examination findings and 4/63 (6.3%) cases did not receive the anticipated computed tomography (CT) scan.

Conclusions

Although initially developed for evaluation of trauma patients, the FAST examination can provide valuable information that can positively impact care in non-trauma patients. The FAST examination can provide information to determine appropriate patient disposition, obtain appropriate additional imaging, ensure timely consultation, and eliminate risk from unnecessary procedures.

Pediatric emergency medicine point-of-care ultrasound: summary of the evidence

The utility of point-of-care ultrasound is well supported by the medical literature. Consequently, pediatric emergency medicine providers have embraced this technology in everyday practice. Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a policy statement endorsing the use of point-of-care ultrasound by pediatric emergency medicine providers.  To date, there is no standard guideline for the practice of point-of-care ultrasound for this specialty. This document serves as an initial step in the detailed "how to" and description of individual point-of-care ultrasound examinations.  Pediatric emergency medicine providers should refer to this paper as reference for published research, objectives for learners, and standardized reporting guidelines.

Optimal Combination of Non-Invasive Tools for the Early Detection of Potentially Life-Threatening Emergencies in Gynecology

Objectives

Potentially life-threatening gynecological emergencies (G-PLEs) are acute pelvic conditions that may spontaneously evolve into a life-threatening situation, or those for which there is a risk of sequelae or death in the absence of prompt diagnosis and treatment. The objective of this study was to identify the best combination of non-invasive diagnostic tools to ensure an accurate diagnosis and timely response when faced with G-PLEs for patients arriving with acute pelvic pain at the Gynecological Emergency Department (ED).

Methods

The data on non-invasive diagnostic tools were sourced from the records of patients presenting at the ED of two hospitals in the Parisian suburbs (France) with acute pelvic pain between September 2006 and April 2008. The medical history of the patients was obtained through a standardized questionnaire completed for a prospective observational study, and missing information was completed with data sourced from the medical forms. Diagnostic tool categories were predefined as a collection of signs or symptoms. We analyzed the association of each sign/symptom with G-PLEs using Pearson’s Chi-Square or Fischer’s exact tests. Symptoms and signs associated with G-PLEs (p-value < 0.20) were subjected to logistic regression to evaluate the diagnostic value of each of the predefined diagnostic tools and in various combinations.

Results

The data of 365 patients with acute pelvic pain were analyzed, of whom 103 were confirmed to have a PLE. We analyzed five diagnostic tools by logistic regression: Triage Process, History-Taking, Physical Examination, Ultrasonography, and Biological Exams. The combination of History-Taking and Ultrasonography had a C-index of 0.83, the highest for a model combining two tools.

Conclusions

The use of a standardized self-assessment questionnaire for history-taking and focal ultrasound examination were found to be the most successful tool combination for the diagnosis of gynecological emergencies in a Gynecological ED. Additional tools, such as physical examination, do not add substantial diagnostic value.

Overview of point-of-care abdominal ultrasound in emergency and critical care

Point-of-care abdominal ultrasound (US), which is performed by clinicians at bedside, is increasingly being used to evaluate clinical manifestations, to facilitate accurate diagnoses, and to assist procedures in emergency and critical care. Methods for the assessment of acute abdominal pain with point-of-care US must be developed according to accumulated evidence in each abdominal region. To detect hemoperitoneum, the methodology of a focused assessment with sonography for a trauma examination may also be an option in non-trauma patients. For the assessment of systemic hypoperfusion and renal dysfunction, point-of-care renal Doppler US may be an option. Utilization of point-of-care US is also considered in order to detect abdominal and pelvic lesions. It is particularly useful for the detection of gallstones and the diagnosis of acute cholecystitis. Point-of-case US is justified as the initial imaging modality for the diagnosis of ureterolithiasis and the assessment of pyelonephritis. It can be used with great accuracy to detect the presence of abdominal aortic aneurysm in symptomatic patients. It may also be useful for the diagnoses of digestive tract diseases such as appendicitis, small bowel obstruction, and gastrointestinal perforation. Additionally, point-of-care US can be a modality for assisting procedures. Paracentesis under US guidance has been shown to improve patient care. US appears to be a potential modality to verify the placement of the gastric tube. The estimation of the amount of urine with bladder US can lead to an increased success rate in small children. US-guided catheterization with transrectal pressure appears to be useful in some male patients in whom standard urethral catheterization is difficult. Although a greater accumulation of evidences is needed in some fields, point-of-care abdominal US is a promising modality to improve patient care in emergency and critical care settings.

Emergency medicine in the Veterans Health Administration-results from a nationwide survey

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We describe emergency physician staffing, capabilities, and academic practices in US Veterans Health Administration (VHA) emergency departments (EDs).

METHODS

As part of an ongoing process improvement effort for the VHA emergency care system, VHA-wide surveys are conducted among ED medical directors every 3 years. Web-based surveys of VHA ED directors were conducted in 2013 on clinical operations and academic program development. We describe the results from the 2013 survey. When available, we compare responses with the previously administered survey from 2010.

RESULTS

A total of 118 of 118 ED directors filled out the survey in 2013 (100% response rate). Respondents reported that 45.5% of VHA emergency physicians are board certified in emergency medicine, and 95% spend most their time in direct patient care. Clinical care is also provided by part-time (<0.5 full-time employee equivalent) emergency physicians in 59.3% of EDs. More than half of EDs (57%) provide on-site tissue plasminogen activator for acute ischemic stroke patients, and only 39% can administer tissue plasminogen activator 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Less than half (48.3%) of EDs have emergency Obstetrics and Gynecology consultation availability. Most VHA EDs (78.8%) have a university affiliation, but only 21.5% participated in the respective academic emergency medicine program.

CONCLUSIONS

Veterans Health Administration emergency physicians have primarily clinical responsibilities, and less than half have formal emergency medicine board certification. Despite most VHA EDs having university affiliations, traditional academic activities (eg, teaching and research) are performed in only 1 in 3 VHA EDs. Less than half of VHA EDs have availability of consulting services, including advanced stroke care and women's health.

Point-of-care ultrasonography by pediatric emergency medicine physicians

Emergency physicians have used point-of-care ultrasonography since the 1990 s. Pediatric emergency medicine physicians have more recently adopted this technology. Point-of-care ultrasonography is used for various scenarios, particularly the evaluation of soft tissue infections or blunt abdominal trauma and procedural guidance. To date, there are no published statements from national organizations specifically for pediatric emergency physicians describing the incorporation of point-of-care ultrasonography into their practice. This document outlines how pediatric emergency departments may establish a formal point-of-care ultrasonography program. This task includes appointing leaders with expertise in point-of-care ultrasonography, effectively training and credentialing physicians in the department, and providing ongoing quality assurance reviews.

Non-invasive tools for the diagnosis of potentially life-threatening gynaecological emergencies: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To identify non-invasive tools for diagnosis of the major potentially life-threatening gynaecological emergencies (G-PLEs) reported in previous studies, and to assess their diagnostic accuracy.

METHODS

MEDLINE; EMBASE; Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; The Cochrane Library) were searched to identify all eligible studies published in English or French between January 1990 and December 2012. Studies were considered eligible if they were primary diagnostic studies of any designs, with a gold standard and with sufficient information for construction of a 2 × 2 contingency table, concerning at least one of the following G-PLEs: complicated ectopic pregnancy, complicated pelvic inflammatory disease, adnexal torsion and haemoperitoneum of any gynaecological origin. Extraction of data and assessment of study quality were conducted by two independent reviewers. We set the thresholds for the diagnostic value of signs retrieved at Sensibility ≥ 95% and LR-≤ 0.25, or Specificity ≥ 90% and LR+ ≥ 4.

RESULTS

We identified 8288 reports of diagnostic studies for the selected G-PLEs, 45 of which met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the included studies was generally low. The most common diagnostic tools evaluated were transvaginal ultrasound (20/45), followed by medical history (18/45), clinical examination (15/45) and laboratory tests (14/45). Standardised questioning about symptoms, systolic blood pressure<110 mmHg, shock index>0.85, identification of a mass by abdominal palpation or vaginal examination, haemoglobin concentration <10 g/dl and six ultrasound and Doppler signs presented high performances for the diagnosis of G-PLEs. Transvaginal ultrasound was the diagnostic tool with the best individual performance for the diagnosis of all G-PLEs.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review suggests that blood pressure measurement, haemoglobin tests and transvaginal ultrasound are cornerstone examinations for the diagnosis of G-PLEs that should be available in all gynaecological emergency care services. Standardised questioning about symptoms could be used for triage of patients.

Diagnosis of intussusception by physician novice sonographers in the emergency department

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We investigate the performance characteristics of bedside emergency department (ED) ultrasonography by nonradiologist physician sonographers in the diagnosis of ileocolic intussusception in children.

METHODS

This was a prospective, observational study conducted in a pediatric ED of an urban tertiary care children's hospital. Pediatric emergency physicians with no experience in bowel ultrasonography underwent a focused 1-hour training session conducted by a pediatric radiologist. The session included a didactic component on sonographic appearances of ileocolic intussusception, review of images with positive and negative results for intussusceptions, and a hands-on component with a live child model. On completion of the training, a prospective convenience sample study was performed. Children were enrolled if they were to undergo diagnostic radiology ultrasonography for suspected intussusception. Bedside ultrasonography by trained pediatric emergency physicians was performed and interpreted as either positive or negative for ileocolic intussusception. Ultrasonographic studies were then performed by diagnostic radiologists, and their results were used as the reference standard. Test characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values) and likelihood ratios were calculated.

RESULTS

Six pediatric emergency physicians completed the training and performed the bedside studies. Eighty-two patients were enrolled. The median age was 25 months (range 3 to 127 months). Thirteen patients (16%) received a diagnosis of ileocolic intussusception by diagnostic radiology. Bedside ultrasonography had a sensitivity of 85% (95% confidence interval [CI] 54% to 97%), specificity of 97% (95% CI 89% to 99%), positive predictive value of 85% (95% CI 54% to 97%), and negative predictive value of 97% (95% CI 89% to 99%). A positive bedside ultrasonographic result had a likelihood ratio of 29 (95% CI 7.3 to 117), and a negative bedside ultrasonographic result had a likelihood ratio of 0.16 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.57).

CONCLUSION

With limited and focused training, pediatric emergency physicians can accurately diagnose ileocolic intussusception in children by using bedside ultrasonography.

Review article: Use of ultrasound in the developing world

As portability and durability improve, bedside, clinician-performed ultrasound is seeing increasing use in rural, underdeveloped parts of the world. Physicians, nurses and medical officers have demonstrated the ability to perform and interpret a large variety of ultrasound exams, and a growing body of literature supports the use of point-of-care ultrasound in developing nations. We review, by region, the existing literature in support of ultrasound use in the developing world and training guidelines currently in use, and highlight indications for emergency ultrasound in the developing world. We suggest future directions for bedside ultrasound use and research to improve diagnostic capacity and patient care in the most remote areas of the globe.

Focused cardiac ultrasound in the emergent setting: a consensus statement of the American Society of Echocardiography and American College of Emergency Physicians

The use of ultrasound has developed over the last 50 years into an indispensable first-line test for the cardiac evaluation of symptomatic patients. The technologic miniaturization and improvement in transducer technology, as well as the implementation of educational curriculum changes in residency training programs and specialty practice, have facilitated the integration of focused cardiac ultrasound into practice by specialties such as emergency medicine. In the emergency department, focused cardiac ultrasound has become a fundamental tool to expedite the diagnostic evaluation of the patient at the bedside and to initiate emergent treatment and triage decisions by the emergency physician.

Use of a β-hCG discriminatory zone with bedside pelvic ultrasonography

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We seek to assess the performance of the β human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) "discriminatory zone" when using bedside pelvic ultrasonography in the evaluation of symptomatic pregnant emergency department (ED) patients.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of bedside pelvic ultrasonography performed on consecutive pregnant patients in the first trimester who presented to the ED with abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding. Patients received pelvic ultrasonography, serum β-hCG testing, and blinded formal radiologic ultrasonography. All patients were followed for 8 weeks to determine outcomes. The sensitivity and specificity of a discriminatory β-hCG level of 3,000 mIU/mL for the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy were calculated for patients without an intrauterine pregnancy visualized by bedside ultrasonography.

RESULTS

Thirty-six faculty physicians performed bedside pelvic ultrasonography on 256 patients. There were 161 cases with a confirmed visualizable intrauterine pregnancy and 29 ectopic pregnancies. Bedside ultrasonography identified 115 intrauterine pregnancies. The range of β-hCG for cases of confirmed visualizable intrauterine pregnancy with a nondiagnostic bedside ultrasonography was 15 mIU/mL to 123,368 mIU/mL (median 6,633; interquartile range 1,551 to 32,699). For patients with nondiagnostic bedside ultrasonography, using a discriminatory β-hCG level of 3,000 mIU/mL to further assess for ectopic pregnancy showed sensitivity of 35% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18% to 54%) and specificity of 58% (95% CI 48% to 67%). Finally, the overall sensitivity of bedside pelvic ultrasonography for the detection of intrauterine pregnancy was 71% (95% CI 63% to 78%), and the specificity was 99% (95% CI 94% to 100%).

CONCLUSION

When bedside pelvic ultrasonography does not demonstrate an intrauterine pregnancy, serum β-hCG level is not helpful in differentiating intrauterine from ectopic pregnancy in symptomatic ED patients.

Resident training in emergency ultrasound: consensus recommendations from the 2008 Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors Conference

Over the past 25 years, research performed by emergency physicians (EPs) demonstrates that bedside ultrasound (US) can improve the care of emergency department (ED) patients. At the request of the Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors (CORD), leaders in the field of emergency medicine (EM) US met to delineate in consensus fashion the model "US curriculum" for EM residency training programs. The goal of this article is to provide a framework for providing US education to EM residents. These guidelines should serve as a foundation for the growth of resident education in EM US. The intent of these guidelines is to provide minimum education standards for all EM residency programs to refer to when establishing an EUS training program. The document focuses on US curriculum, US education, and competency assessment. The use of US in the management of critically ill patients will improve patient care and thus should be viewed as a required skill set for all future graduating EM residents. The authors consider EUS skills critical to the development of an emergency physician, and a minimum skill set should be mandatory for all graduating EM residents. The US education provided to EM residents should be structured to allow residents to incorporate US into daily clinical practice. Image acquisition and interpretation alone are insufficient. The ability to integrate findings with patient care and apply them in a busy clinical environment should be stressed.

Does tubal ectopic pregnancy with hemoperitoneum always require surgery?

OBJECTIVE

Hemoperitoneum is accepted as an indication for surgery in women with tubal ectopic pregnancy. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of managing such women non-surgically.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. Women with tubal ectopic pregnancy and hemoperitoneum detected on transvaginal sonography (TVS) were managed as inpatients either expectantly or with methotrexate (MTX). Inclusion criteria for conservative management were: compliance, clinical stability, absence of acute abdomen, stable hemoglobin level on two measurements (0 and 12-24 h apart), serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) < 5000 IU/L, absence of fetal cardiac activity on TVS and absence of significant hemoperitoneum, defined as blood above the level of the uterine fundus and/or in Morison's pouch (hepatorenal space). Subsequent management was based upon the hCG ratio at 48 h. All the women were managed as inpatients until the abdominal pain settled and the serum hCG levels were falling.

RESULTS

Forty-one women with tubal ectopic pregnancy presented between November 2006 and March 2008. Eight women (20%) fulfilled the entry criteria. The median gestational age at diagnosis was 49 (interquartile range, 38-52.5) days. All women presented with lower abdominal pain/right iliac fossa or left iliac fossa pain. Hemoglobin levels ranged from 11.2 to 14.2 g/dL at presentation and from 12.0 to 14.8 g/dL after 12-24 h. 6/8 (75%) women were managed expectantly and 2/8 (25%) received MTX. All women had resolution of their ectopic pregnancy within 3 weeks with no complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study suggests that the finding of hemoperitoneum on ultrasound examination may not be an absolute contraindication to conservative management of tubal ectopic pregnancy.

Bedside pediatric emergency evaluation through ultrasonography

Bedside US has emerged as a valuable technology for the emergency department physician. It impacts clinical decision-making and the safety of procedures, and it decreases the time and increases the efficiency for completion of procedures. The portability, accuracy and noninvasive nature of US make it an ideal tool for the trained clinician. Bedside US can improve clinical decision-making for the pediatric patient by helping the clinician to identify critical pathology, direct therapeutic maneuvers and determine the futility of resuscitations. Many pediatric procedures, such as vascular access, lumbar puncture and bladder catheterization, are typically performed blindly. Bedside US enhances the success of procedures, minimizes complications and limits the number of attempts necessary to complete a procedure. Bedside US can be a valuable adjunct for complicated and time-sensitive disease processes such as ectopic pregnancy, testicular torsion and hypovolemia by providing information to guide diagnostic and therapeutic interventions that subsequently improve outcomes.