Sierra Beck, MD

Ankle effusions can be quite debilitating, causing band-like swelling and stiffness to the anterior aspect of ankle at the tibiotalar joint. Significant swelling can impair ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion. The differential diagnosis for joint effusions is wide, and includes traumatic effusion; gout; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; and septic arthritis, which is one of the most important diagnoses for the emergency physician (EP) to identify and initiate prompt treatment to reduce the risk of serious morbidity and mortality. Differentiating these conditions requires joint aspiration and synovial fluid analysis. While a large effusion will be palpable and likely ballotable, smaller effusions are more challenging clinically. In such cases, point-of-care (POC) ultrasound can be a valuable tool in confirming a joint effusion.

Identifying Landmarks and Tibiotalar Joint

To access the tibiotalar joint space, it is important to identify useful landmarks.¹ This is best accomplished by having the patient in the supine position, with the affected knee flexed approximately 90° and plantar surface of the foot lying flat on the bed (Figure 1).

The palpable landmark is the tibialis anterior tendon lateral to the medial malleolus (Figure 2). Immediately lateral and slightly distal to the tibialis anterior is the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon, which extends into the proximal foot.¹

When aspirating the ankle joint space, these landmarks will avoid the dorsalis pedis artery lateral to EHL tendon. The location for aspiration of ankle joint will be medial to tibialis anterior tendon.

Performing the Arthrocentesis

The arthrocentesis is performed under sterile conditions using the high-frequency linear probe. A sterile probe cover is highly recommended if the operator will be using ultrasound to guide the procedure in real time.² Using the palpable landmarks as a guide, the clinician should align the probe just medial to the tibialis anterior tendon with the probe marker oriented cephalad; scanning should begin superior to the ankle joint. The tibia will appear as a hyperechoic stripe just under a thin soft tissue layer. When the tibia is visible, the clinician should then slide the probe distally. The joint space will demonstrated by visualization of the distal tibia and talus bone (Figure 3).

Since bone is highly reflective on ultrasound, the cortex will appear as white echogenic line with dark shadow below it. An effusion will appear as an anaechoic (black) fluid collection in the space between the tibia and talus (Figure 4).

If an effusion is present, the clinician should then center the probe over this space and administer local anesthetic medial to the probe (and tibialis anterior), employing an out-of-plane needle approach. Next, one inserts an 18-gauge needle at an angle of 75° to 80° in relation to the probe (Figure 5).

Using ultrasound to visualize the needle tip entering the effusion, the clinician should aspirate the fluid slowly while advancing the needle into the joint space.

Pearls and Pitfalls

Point-of-care ultrasound is not only useful to guide arthrocentesis of joint effusions, but also to confirm the presence of an effusion prior to aspiration. At our institution, we have had many cases in which POC ultrasound demonstrated an absence of effusion, and we were able to avoid an unnecessary joint aspiration. Moreover, when an effusion is present, POC ultrasound-guided aspiration avoids complications. The use of POC ultrasound can also increase the confidence of the provider performing arthrocentesis of joints less commonly aspirated.

Summary

Joint aspiration is an important procedural tool for EPs, especially when used to rule out life-threatening conditions such as septic arthritis. Deeper joints and small fluid collections, however, can be difficult to access without image guidance. In the ED setting, POC ultrasound provides a widely available, easy-to-use, low-cost tool to increase the likelihood of success while minimizing damage to adjacent structures.

 

Ankle effusions can be quite debilitating, causing band-like swelling and stiffness to the anterior aspect of ankle at the tibiotalar joint. Significant swelling can impair ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion. The differential diagnosis for joint effusions is wide, and includes traumatic effusion; gout; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; and septic arthritis, which is one of the most important diagnoses for the emergency physician (EP) to identify and initiate prompt treatment to reduce the risk of serious morbidity and mortality. Differentiating these conditions requires joint aspiration and synovial fluid analysis. While a large effusion will be palpable and likely ballotable, smaller effusions are more challenging clinically. In such cases, point-of-care (POC) ultrasound can be a valuable tool in confirming a joint effusion.

Identifying Landmarks and Tibiotalar Joint

To access the tibiotalar joint space, it is important to identify useful landmarks.¹ This is best accomplished by having the patient in the supine position, with the affected knee flexed approximately 90° and plantar surface of the foot lying flat on the bed (Figure 1).

The palpable landmark is the tibialis anterior tendon lateral to the medial malleolus (Figure 2). Immediately lateral and slightly distal to the tibialis anterior is the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon, which extends into the proximal foot.¹

When aspirating the ankle joint space, these landmarks will avoid the dorsalis pedis artery lateral to EHL tendon. The location for aspiration of ankle joint will be medial to tibialis anterior tendon.

Performing the Arthrocentesis

The arthrocentesis is performed under sterile conditions using the high-frequency linear probe. A sterile probe cover is highly recommended if the operator will be using ultrasound to guide the procedure in real time.² Using the palpable landmarks as a guide, the clinician should align the probe just medial to the tibialis anterior tendon with the probe marker oriented cephalad; scanning should begin superior to the ankle joint. The tibia will appear as a hyperechoic stripe just under a thin soft tissue layer. When the tibia is visible, the clinician should then slide the probe distally. The joint space will demonstrated by visualization of the distal tibia and talus bone (Figure 3).

Since bone is highly reflective on ultrasound, the cortex will appear as white echogenic line with dark shadow below it. An effusion will appear as an anaechoic (black) fluid collection in the space between the tibia and talus (Figure 4).

If an effusion is present, the clinician should then center the probe over this space and administer local anesthetic medial to the probe (and tibialis anterior), employing an out-of-plane needle approach. Next, one inserts an 18-gauge needle at an angle of 75° to 80° in relation to the probe (Figure 5).

Using ultrasound to visualize the needle tip entering the effusion, the clinician should aspirate the fluid slowly while advancing the needle into the joint space.

Pearls and Pitfalls

Point-of-care ultrasound is not only useful to guide arthrocentesis of joint effusions, but also to confirm the presence of an effusion prior to aspiration. At our institution, we have had many cases in which POC ultrasound demonstrated an absence of effusion, and we were able to avoid an unnecessary joint aspiration. Moreover, when an effusion is present, POC ultrasound-guided aspiration avoids complications. The use of POC ultrasound can also increase the confidence of the provider performing arthrocentesis of joints less commonly aspirated.

Summary

Joint aspiration is an important procedural tool for EPs, especially when used to rule out life-threatening conditions such as septic arthritis. Deeper joints and small fluid collections, however, can be difficult to access without image guidance. In the ED setting, POC ultrasound provides a widely available, easy-to-use, low-cost tool to increase the likelihood of success while minimizing damage to adjacent structures.

 

Ankle effusions can be quite debilitating, causing band-like swelling and stiffness to the anterior aspect of ankle at the tibiotalar joint. Significant swelling can impair ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion. The differential diagnosis for joint effusions is wide, and includes traumatic effusion; gout; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; and septic arthritis, which is one of the most important diagnoses for the emergency physician (EP) to identify and initiate prompt treatment to reduce the risk of serious morbidity and mortality. Differentiating these conditions requires joint aspiration and synovial fluid analysis. While a large effusion will be palpable and likely ballotable, smaller effusions are more challenging clinically. In such cases, point-of-care (POC) ultrasound can be a valuable tool in confirming a joint effusion.

Identifying Landmarks and Tibiotalar Joint

To access the tibiotalar joint space, it is important to identify useful landmarks.¹ This is best accomplished by having the patient in the supine position, with the affected knee flexed approximately 90° and plantar surface of the foot lying flat on the bed (Figure 1).

The palpable landmark is the tibialis anterior tendon lateral to the medial malleolus (Figure 2). Immediately lateral and slightly distal to the tibialis anterior is the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon, which extends into the proximal foot.¹

When aspirating the ankle joint space, these landmarks will avoid the dorsalis pedis artery lateral to EHL tendon. The location for aspiration of ankle joint will be medial to tibialis anterior tendon.

Performing the Arthrocentesis

The arthrocentesis is performed under sterile conditions using the high-frequency linear probe. A sterile probe cover is highly recommended if the operator will be using ultrasound to guide the procedure in real time.² Using the palpable landmarks as a guide, the clinician should align the probe just medial to the tibialis anterior tendon with the probe marker oriented cephalad; scanning should begin superior to the ankle joint. The tibia will appear as a hyperechoic stripe just under a thin soft tissue layer. When the tibia is visible, the clinician should then slide the probe distally. The joint space will demonstrated by visualization of the distal tibia and talus bone (Figure 3).

Since bone is highly reflective on ultrasound, the cortex will appear as white echogenic line with dark shadow below it. An effusion will appear as an anaechoic (black) fluid collection in the space between the tibia and talus (Figure 4).

If an effusion is present, the clinician should then center the probe over this space and administer local anesthetic medial to the probe (and tibialis anterior), employing an out-of-plane needle approach. Next, one inserts an 18-gauge needle at an angle of 75° to 80° in relation to the probe (Figure 5).

Using ultrasound to visualize the needle tip entering the effusion, the clinician should aspirate the fluid slowly while advancing the needle into the joint space.

Pearls and Pitfalls

Point-of-care ultrasound is not only useful to guide arthrocentesis of joint effusions, but also to confirm the presence of an effusion prior to aspiration. At our institution, we have had many cases in which POC ultrasound demonstrated an absence of effusion, and we were able to avoid an unnecessary joint aspiration. Moreover, when an effusion is present, POC ultrasound-guided aspiration avoids complications. The use of POC ultrasound can also increase the confidence of the provider performing arthrocentesis of joints less commonly aspirated.

Summary

Joint aspiration is an important procedural tool for EPs, especially when used to rule out life-threatening conditions such as septic arthritis. Deeper joints and small fluid collections, however, can be difficult to access without image guidance. In the ED setting, POC ultrasound provides a widely available, easy-to-use, low-cost tool to increase the likelihood of success while minimizing damage to adjacent structures.

 

The vast majority of musculotendinous injuries occur secondary to violent contraction or excessive stretching.¹ Ligamentous injuries, on the other hand, are due to an abnormal motion of joints. The magnitude of inciting forces results in a spectrum of pathology, ranging from a minor tear to a complete disruption of structures.

Ultrasonography provides a detailed assessment of soft tissue anatomy and dynamic functionality, and in some instances can be comparable or even superior to magnetic resonance imaging² because the structural characteristics of certain tendons make them ideal for imaging via ultrasonography. We describe some of these characteristics and highlight their utility in diagnostic imaging.

Anatomical Structure

Tendons consist of tightly packed type I collagen fibers forming subfascicles that are arranged in a parallel distribution as fascicles. These bundles are held together by loose soft tissue, and the entire structure is covered by a thick fibroelastic epitendineum sheath. This linear distribution of structures yields a uniquely linear “fibrillary” pattern when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the structure (Figure 1a). In the short-axis view, the tendon appears as a well-circumscribed structure with speckled pattern of hyperechoic foci (Figure 1b). ³

Imaging Technique

The optimal scanning technique involves the use of a high-frequency linear transducer. Higher frequencies yield more detailed images, but may be limited in patients with deeper structures due to body habitus. A key concept in tendon evaluation is an artifact known as “anisotropy.” This refers to change in appearance of the tendon based on the incident angle of the ultrasound beam. For example, when the probe is held perpendicular to the structure of interest, parallel fibers will reflect the emitted beam toward the probe and thus appear as hyperechoic and speckled, a characteristic of these fibers (Figures 1a and 1b). Contrarily, if the probe is held at a nonperpendicular angle, the reflected beam will not return to the probe, resulting in a hypoechoic appearance (Figure 2).

Pathology

Tendon strains result in varying degrees of fibrous tearing. These tears can range from first-degree tears (a few fibers) to third-degree tears (complete disruption). Partial tears result in focal hematoma formation (Figure 3a) at the region of disruption, appearing on ultrasound as a hypoechoic fluid collection within a hyperechoic fibrillary or speckled tendon structure. If the disruption occurs along the surface of the tendon, a focus of anechoic fluid may be seen surrounding the tendon. Complete tendon ruptures, on the other hand, appear as a hypoechoic void with retracted tendon fragments visualized on either side⁴ (Figures 3b and 3c). Although complete tears can be more apparent clinically in areas in which a group of tendons performs a cohesive movement (ie, rotator cuff), ultrasound can significantly reduce the rate of delayed diagnosis when physical examination is equivocal.

In the appropriate clinical setting, ultrasonography can provide rapid and dynamic assessment of musculotendinous injuries. Lower extremity injuries, including those affecting the Achilles (Figure 1), quadriceps, (Figures 4a and 4b) and patellar tendons (Figure 5), are easier clinical applications.

Assessment of rotator cuff tendons, although more difficult, can provide a specific assessment of shoulder pain.⁵ In such scenarios, ultrasound can serve a very useful role as an adjunct to the physical examination.

An important point to recognize is that tendons will appear hypoechoic at the insertion point on bone (anthesis) due to increased curvature resulting in lack of anisotropy. This can appear as a pathological finding, but can be accounted for by simply performing a heel-toe or tilt maneuver to arrange the beam perpendicular to the tendon fibers (Figures 6a and 6b).

Summary

Musculotendinous injuries many times present as nonspecific symptoms of pain and/or swelling. In the case of an equivocal physical examination, musculotendinous injuries can be diagnosed with increased accuracy through the use of ultrasound. Understanding the artifactual component of tendon ultrasound can aid the clinician in diagnosing these injuries, enhancing patient care and satisfaction.

 

The vast majority of musculotendinous injuries occur secondary to violent contraction or excessive stretching.¹ Ligamentous injuries, on the other hand, are due to an abnormal motion of joints. The magnitude of inciting forces results in a spectrum of pathology, ranging from a minor tear to a complete disruption of structures.

Ultrasonography provides a detailed assessment of soft tissue anatomy and dynamic functionality, and in some instances can be comparable or even superior to magnetic resonance imaging² because the structural characteristics of certain tendons make them ideal for imaging via ultrasonography. We describe some of these characteristics and highlight their utility in diagnostic imaging.

Anatomical Structure

Tendons consist of tightly packed type I collagen fibers forming subfascicles that are arranged in a parallel distribution as fascicles. These bundles are held together by loose soft tissue, and the entire structure is covered by a thick fibroelastic epitendineum sheath. This linear distribution of structures yields a uniquely linear “fibrillary” pattern when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the structure (Figure 1a). In the short-axis view, the tendon appears as a well-circumscribed structure with speckled pattern of hyperechoic foci (Figure 1b). ³

Imaging Technique

The optimal scanning technique involves the use of a high-frequency linear transducer. Higher frequencies yield more detailed images, but may be limited in patients with deeper structures due to body habitus. A key concept in tendon evaluation is an artifact known as “anisotropy.” This refers to change in appearance of the tendon based on the incident angle of the ultrasound beam. For example, when the probe is held perpendicular to the structure of interest, parallel fibers will reflect the emitted beam toward the probe and thus appear as hyperechoic and speckled, a characteristic of these fibers (Figures 1a and 1b). Contrarily, if the probe is held at a nonperpendicular angle, the reflected beam will not return to the probe, resulting in a hypoechoic appearance (Figure 2).

Pathology

Tendon strains result in varying degrees of fibrous tearing. These tears can range from first-degree tears (a few fibers) to third-degree tears (complete disruption). Partial tears result in focal hematoma formation (Figure 3a) at the region of disruption, appearing on ultrasound as a hypoechoic fluid collection within a hyperechoic fibrillary or speckled tendon structure. If the disruption occurs along the surface of the tendon, a focus of anechoic fluid may be seen surrounding the tendon. Complete tendon ruptures, on the other hand, appear as a hypoechoic void with retracted tendon fragments visualized on either side⁴ (Figures 3b and 3c). Although complete tears can be more apparent clinically in areas in which a group of tendons performs a cohesive movement (ie, rotator cuff), ultrasound can significantly reduce the rate of delayed diagnosis when physical examination is equivocal.

In the appropriate clinical setting, ultrasonography can provide rapid and dynamic assessment of musculotendinous injuries. Lower extremity injuries, including those affecting the Achilles (Figure 1), quadriceps, (Figures 4a and 4b) and patellar tendons (Figure 5), are easier clinical applications.

Assessment of rotator cuff tendons, although more difficult, can provide a specific assessment of shoulder pain.⁵ In such scenarios, ultrasound can serve a very useful role as an adjunct to the physical examination.

An important point to recognize is that tendons will appear hypoechoic at the insertion point on bone (anthesis) due to increased curvature resulting in lack of anisotropy. This can appear as a pathological finding, but can be accounted for by simply performing a heel-toe or tilt maneuver to arrange the beam perpendicular to the tendon fibers (Figures 6a and 6b).

Summary

Musculotendinous injuries many times present as nonspecific symptoms of pain and/or swelling. In the case of an equivocal physical examination, musculotendinous injuries can be diagnosed with increased accuracy through the use of ultrasound. Understanding the artifactual component of tendon ultrasound can aid the clinician in diagnosing these injuries, enhancing patient care and satisfaction.

 

The vast majority of musculotendinous injuries occur secondary to violent contraction or excessive stretching.¹ Ligamentous injuries, on the other hand, are due to an abnormal motion of joints. The magnitude of inciting forces results in a spectrum of pathology, ranging from a minor tear to a complete disruption of structures.

Ultrasonography provides a detailed assessment of soft tissue anatomy and dynamic functionality, and in some instances can be comparable or even superior to magnetic resonance imaging² because the structural characteristics of certain tendons make them ideal for imaging via ultrasonography. We describe some of these characteristics and highlight their utility in diagnostic imaging.

Anatomical Structure

Tendons consist of tightly packed type I collagen fibers forming subfascicles that are arranged in a parallel distribution as fascicles. These bundles are held together by loose soft tissue, and the entire structure is covered by a thick fibroelastic epitendineum sheath. This linear distribution of structures yields a uniquely linear “fibrillary” pattern when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the structure (Figure 1a). In the short-axis view, the tendon appears as a well-circumscribed structure with speckled pattern of hyperechoic foci (Figure 1b). ³

Imaging Technique

The optimal scanning technique involves the use of a high-frequency linear transducer. Higher frequencies yield more detailed images, but may be limited in patients with deeper structures due to body habitus. A key concept in tendon evaluation is an artifact known as “anisotropy.” This refers to change in appearance of the tendon based on the incident angle of the ultrasound beam. For example, when the probe is held perpendicular to the structure of interest, parallel fibers will reflect the emitted beam toward the probe and thus appear as hyperechoic and speckled, a characteristic of these fibers (Figures 1a and 1b). Contrarily, if the probe is held at a nonperpendicular angle, the reflected beam will not return to the probe, resulting in a hypoechoic appearance (Figure 2).

Pathology

Tendon strains result in varying degrees of fibrous tearing. These tears can range from first-degree tears (a few fibers) to third-degree tears (complete disruption). Partial tears result in focal hematoma formation (Figure 3a) at the region of disruption, appearing on ultrasound as a hypoechoic fluid collection within a hyperechoic fibrillary or speckled tendon structure. If the disruption occurs along the surface of the tendon, a focus of anechoic fluid may be seen surrounding the tendon. Complete tendon ruptures, on the other hand, appear as a hypoechoic void with retracted tendon fragments visualized on either side⁴ (Figures 3b and 3c). Although complete tears can be more apparent clinically in areas in which a group of tendons performs a cohesive movement (ie, rotator cuff), ultrasound can significantly reduce the rate of delayed diagnosis when physical examination is equivocal.

In the appropriate clinical setting, ultrasonography can provide rapid and dynamic assessment of musculotendinous injuries. Lower extremity injuries, including those affecting the Achilles (Figure 1), quadriceps, (Figures 4a and 4b) and patellar tendons (Figure 5), are easier clinical applications.

Assessment of rotator cuff tendons, although more difficult, can provide a specific assessment of shoulder pain.⁵ In such scenarios, ultrasound can serve a very useful role as an adjunct to the physical examination.

An important point to recognize is that tendons will appear hypoechoic at the insertion point on bone (anthesis) due to increased curvature resulting in lack of anisotropy. This can appear as a pathological finding, but can be accounted for by simply performing a heel-toe or tilt maneuver to arrange the beam perpendicular to the tendon fibers (Figures 6a and 6b).

Summary

Musculotendinous injuries many times present as nonspecific symptoms of pain and/or swelling. In the case of an equivocal physical examination, musculotendinous injuries can be diagnosed with increased accuracy through the use of ultrasound. Understanding the artifactual component of tendon ultrasound can aid the clinician in diagnosing these injuries, enhancing patient care and satisfaction.

 

Clinicians familiar with point-of-care (POC) ultrasound know that structures such as the hands and feet require the use of the linear high-frequency transducer to obtain quality images. In reality, however, employing the standard technique (ie, applying gel to the probe surface and scanning the structure) can be challenging due to the uneven surfaces of the fingers and toes; therefore, obtaining good contact with the transducer is harder than it may seem at first glance. Additionally, since these structures are superficial, they are usually seen on the top half of the ultrasound display, while the focal zone of most ultrasound machines is located in the middle of the display and is nonadjustable.

We describe two simple adjuncts to POC ultrasound that can assist in visualizing digital structures with greater ease and improved image resolution: the water bath^1,2 and standoff pad techniques.

Water Bath Technique

In the water bath technique, one fills a small basin with lukewarm water to a depth point where the extremity being studied (ie, hand or foot) is mostly—but not completely—submerged in the water bath.  After the extremity is submerged, the high-frequency probe is then placed into the water bath (Figure 1). When employing this technique, the transducer does not need to make contact with the patient’s skin. Since the water acts as an excellent conduction medium for sound waves, no ultrasound gel is required. For a video demonstrating the use of the water bath technique to evaluate the distal tip of the finger, see below.

Standoff Pad

Another technique that enhances POC imaging of the digits involves a standoff pad. A variety of commercially available standoff pads can be used for this technique. Alternatively, the clinician can easily create a standoff pad using supplies that are readily available in the ED. One such method is to fill a latex glove with water, tie off the filled glove, and place it on top of the extremity to be imaged (Figure 2). The water in the glove will facilitate sound-wave transmission.

Pathology

The water bath and standoff pad techniques can facilitate visualization of several pathologies, including felons (Figure 3), flexor tenosynovitis, phalangeal and metacarpal/metatarsal fractures, and interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal, and metatarsophalangeal joint effusions (Figure 4). In addition, these techniques also assist in visualizing digit tendons to evaluate for tears in these structures (Figure 5).

 

 

Summary

Point-of-care ultrasound imaging to evaluate superficial body parts such as hands or feet can be challenging due to the irregular shape and uneven surface of these structures. The employment of adjuncts such as the water bath or standoff pad techniques can mitigate these challenges, facilitating the acquisition of high-resolution images and providing easier identification of pathology.

Clinicians familiar with point-of-care (POC) ultrasound know that structures such as the hands and feet require the use of the linear high-frequency transducer to obtain quality images. In reality, however, employing the standard technique (ie, applying gel to the probe surface and scanning the structure) can be challenging due to the uneven surfaces of the fingers and toes; therefore, obtaining good contact with the transducer is harder than it may seem at first glance. Additionally, since these structures are superficial, they are usually seen on the top half of the ultrasound display, while the focal zone of most ultrasound machines is located in the middle of the display and is nonadjustable.

We describe two simple adjuncts to POC ultrasound that can assist in visualizing digital structures with greater ease and improved image resolution: the water bath^1,2 and standoff pad techniques.

Water Bath Technique

In the water bath technique, one fills a small basin with lukewarm water to a depth point where the extremity being studied (ie, hand or foot) is mostly—but not completely—submerged in the water bath.  After the extremity is submerged, the high-frequency probe is then placed into the water bath (Figure 1). When employing this technique, the transducer does not need to make contact with the patient’s skin. Since the water acts as an excellent conduction medium for sound waves, no ultrasound gel is required. For a video demonstrating the use of the water bath technique to evaluate the distal tip of the finger, see below.

Standoff Pad

Another technique that enhances POC imaging of the digits involves a standoff pad. A variety of commercially available standoff pads can be used for this technique. Alternatively, the clinician can easily create a standoff pad using supplies that are readily available in the ED. One such method is to fill a latex glove with water, tie off the filled glove, and place it on top of the extremity to be imaged (Figure 2). The water in the glove will facilitate sound-wave transmission.

Pathology

The water bath and standoff pad techniques can facilitate visualization of several pathologies, including felons (Figure 3), flexor tenosynovitis, phalangeal and metacarpal/metatarsal fractures, and interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal, and metatarsophalangeal joint effusions (Figure 4). In addition, these techniques also assist in visualizing digit tendons to evaluate for tears in these structures (Figure 5).

 

 

Summary

Point-of-care ultrasound imaging to evaluate superficial body parts such as hands or feet can be challenging due to the irregular shape and uneven surface of these structures. The employment of adjuncts such as the water bath or standoff pad techniques can mitigate these challenges, facilitating the acquisition of high-resolution images and providing easier identification of pathology.

Clinicians familiar with point-of-care (POC) ultrasound know that structures such as the hands and feet require the use of the linear high-frequency transducer to obtain quality images. In reality, however, employing the standard technique (ie, applying gel to the probe surface and scanning the structure) can be challenging due to the uneven surfaces of the fingers and toes; therefore, obtaining good contact with the transducer is harder than it may seem at first glance. Additionally, since these structures are superficial, they are usually seen on the top half of the ultrasound display, while the focal zone of most ultrasound machines is located in the middle of the display and is nonadjustable.

We describe two simple adjuncts to POC ultrasound that can assist in visualizing digital structures with greater ease and improved image resolution: the water bath^1,2 and standoff pad techniques.

Water Bath Technique

In the water bath technique, one fills a small basin with lukewarm water to a depth point where the extremity being studied (ie, hand or foot) is mostly—but not completely—submerged in the water bath.  After the extremity is submerged, the high-frequency probe is then placed into the water bath (Figure 1). When employing this technique, the transducer does not need to make contact with the patient’s skin. Since the water acts as an excellent conduction medium for sound waves, no ultrasound gel is required. For a video demonstrating the use of the water bath technique to evaluate the distal tip of the finger, see below.

Standoff Pad

Another technique that enhances POC imaging of the digits involves a standoff pad. A variety of commercially available standoff pads can be used for this technique. Alternatively, the clinician can easily create a standoff pad using supplies that are readily available in the ED. One such method is to fill a latex glove with water, tie off the filled glove, and place it on top of the extremity to be imaged (Figure 2). The water in the glove will facilitate sound-wave transmission.

Pathology

The water bath and standoff pad techniques can facilitate visualization of several pathologies, including felons (Figure 3), flexor tenosynovitis, phalangeal and metacarpal/metatarsal fractures, and interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal, and metatarsophalangeal joint effusions (Figure 4). In addition, these techniques also assist in visualizing digit tendons to evaluate for tears in these structures (Figure 5).

 

 

Summary

Point-of-care ultrasound imaging to evaluate superficial body parts such as hands or feet can be challenging due to the irregular shape and uneven surface of these structures. The employment of adjuncts such as the water bath or standoff pad techniques can mitigate these challenges, facilitating the acquisition of high-resolution images and providing easier identification of pathology.

Emergency physicians (EPs) have traditionally used the landmark technique to block the radial, ulnar, and median nerves at the wrist (Figure 1). Many times, however, there is a need to perform the block more proximally. Performing these blocks with real-time ultrasound guidance allows the clinician to visually target the nerve, requires less anesthetic agent, and helps to avoid vascular structures. As with any procedure, employing the appropriate technique, along with practice, increases the success of the block.

Patient Selection

Before performing a nerve block, the EP must first determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate. The EP should be cautious in performing a nerve block on any patient who has paresthesias, tingling, or weakness, as the block will complicate further examinations. Likewise, a nerve block may be contraindicated in a patient in whom compartment syndrome is a concern, since the analgesic effect will inhibit the patient’s ability to sense increasing pain or worsening paresthesias.

Equipment and Preprocedure Care

An ultrasound-guided nerve block is performed using the linear high-frequency probe. Prior to the procedure, standard infection-control measures should be taken—ie, thoroughly cleaning the preinjection site and using a transducer-probe cover. Regarding the choice of anesthetic, either bupivacaine or lidocaine is appropriate; however, bupivacaine will provide a longer duration of analgesia. To administer the anesthetic, we typically use a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle. A review of the literature typically suggests either noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels. There is a paucity of data on needle tip selection. The use of noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels may be a better choice than a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle because they may decrease the chance of intraneural injection and consequent nerve injury.

Single- Versus Two-Person Technique

Peripheral nerve blocks can be performed using either a single- or two-person technique. In the one-person technique, the operator manipulates both the probe and the syringe. The two-person technique, however, requires the addition of tubing between the needle and the syringe. This can be done with the addition of a small section of intravenous (IV) tubing or by connecting two pieces of tubing together (the type traditionally placed on IV catheters). The operator holds the needle and the probe while the syringe and injection are controlled by the second person. Then, with the ultrasound machine set at the nerve or soft-tissue presetting, the scan begins by placing the probe in a transverse orientation.

Nerve Location and Identification

As previously noted, the ulnar, median, and radial nerves have traditionally been identified through use of the landmark technique just proximal to the wrist. The nerves can be located initially at these sites and then traced proximally.

Ulnar Nerve

The ulnar nerve is located on the ulnar side of the forearm, just proximal to the wrist. (Figure 2a and 2b). The clinician should begin by fanning the probe at the wrist to find the ulnar artery and locate the nerve bundle. The ulnar nerve is also located on the ulnar side of the ulnar artery. The nerve will diverge from the path of the artery as it is traced proximally. To decrease the chance of an arterial injection/injury, the clinician should administer a nerve block after separating these two structures.

Median Nerve

The clinician can employ the landmark approach to help find the nerve; then the scan should begin at the carpal tunnel. On ultrasound, the tendons in the carpal tunnel will appear similar to nerves (ie, round and hyperechoic) compared to surrounding muscle. As one continues to slide the probe up the forearm, the tendons will become muscles and a single hyperechoic structure will remain—the median nerve running in between the flexor digitorum superificialis and the flexor digitorum profundus (Figure 3a and 3b). Since there is no artery alongside the median nerve, it can be traced proximally; therefore, the procedure can be performed in any convenient location.

Radial Nerve

Of the three nerves, the radial nerve is the most challenging to visualize on ultrasound. There are two approaches to performing a radial nerve block. In the first approach, the radial nerve can be found just proximal to the wrist crease on the radial side of the radial artery (Figure 4a and 4b). This nerve is typically much smaller and harder to visualize at this level; it can be traced proximally and the block performed at this location. In the second approach, the radial nerve can be located 3 to 4 cm proximal to the elbow with the probe located anterolaterally (Figure 5a and 5b). In this location, the radial nerve lies between the brachialis and the brachioradialis muscles. In this approach, the nerve is much larger and easier to visualize.

 

Performing the Block

Prior to performing an anesthetic block at the ulnar, median, or radial nerve at the wrist, the clinician should first place the patient in a sitting or supine position with the appropriate elbow extended. When performing the block at the radial nerve above the elbow, the hand is typically placed in a resting position on the patient’s abdomen. When localizing the nerve, the angle of the transducer can vary the appearance of the nerve dramatically. To ensure the best possible view, the clinician should slowly “rock” the probe back and forth 10° to 20° in plane with the long axis of the arm, making sure the probe is placed as perpendicular as possible to the nerve. Once the nerve is identified, the clinician can follow it up and down the forearm with the probe to identify the best site to perform the block. In the optimal location, there should be a clear path that is as superficial as possible and avoids any vascular structures. We prefer using an in-plane technique to perform the nerve block to visualize the entire needle as it approaches the nerve. Once the site has been determined, the clinician should slowly inject 4 to 5 cc of anesthetic around the nerve, with the objective to partially surround the nerve. There is no need to completely surround the nerve, as doing so is not necessary to achieve a successful block. The clinician should stop immediately if the patient reports pain or if there is increased resistance, because this could indicate an intraneural injection.

Summary

Ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks are an excellent option for providing regional anesthesia to lacerations and wounds that are too large for a local anesthetic. This technique can provide better analgesic relief, enhancing patient care.

Emergency physicians (EPs) have traditionally used the landmark technique to block the radial, ulnar, and median nerves at the wrist (Figure 1). Many times, however, there is a need to perform the block more proximally. Performing these blocks with real-time ultrasound guidance allows the clinician to visually target the nerve, requires less anesthetic agent, and helps to avoid vascular structures. As with any procedure, employing the appropriate technique, along with practice, increases the success of the block.

Patient Selection

Before performing a nerve block, the EP must first determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate. The EP should be cautious in performing a nerve block on any patient who has paresthesias, tingling, or weakness, as the block will complicate further examinations. Likewise, a nerve block may be contraindicated in a patient in whom compartment syndrome is a concern, since the analgesic effect will inhibit the patient’s ability to sense increasing pain or worsening paresthesias.

Equipment and Preprocedure Care

An ultrasound-guided nerve block is performed using the linear high-frequency probe. Prior to the procedure, standard infection-control measures should be taken—ie, thoroughly cleaning the preinjection site and using a transducer-probe cover. Regarding the choice of anesthetic, either bupivacaine or lidocaine is appropriate; however, bupivacaine will provide a longer duration of analgesia. To administer the anesthetic, we typically use a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle. A review of the literature typically suggests either noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels. There is a paucity of data on needle tip selection. The use of noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels may be a better choice than a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle because they may decrease the chance of intraneural injection and consequent nerve injury.

Single- Versus Two-Person Technique

Peripheral nerve blocks can be performed using either a single- or two-person technique. In the one-person technique, the operator manipulates both the probe and the syringe. The two-person technique, however, requires the addition of tubing between the needle and the syringe. This can be done with the addition of a small section of intravenous (IV) tubing or by connecting two pieces of tubing together (the type traditionally placed on IV catheters). The operator holds the needle and the probe while the syringe and injection are controlled by the second person. Then, with the ultrasound machine set at the nerve or soft-tissue presetting, the scan begins by placing the probe in a transverse orientation.

Nerve Location and Identification

As previously noted, the ulnar, median, and radial nerves have traditionally been identified through use of the landmark technique just proximal to the wrist. The nerves can be located initially at these sites and then traced proximally.

Ulnar Nerve

The ulnar nerve is located on the ulnar side of the forearm, just proximal to the wrist. (Figure 2a and 2b). The clinician should begin by fanning the probe at the wrist to find the ulnar artery and locate the nerve bundle. The ulnar nerve is also located on the ulnar side of the ulnar artery. The nerve will diverge from the path of the artery as it is traced proximally. To decrease the chance of an arterial injection/injury, the clinician should administer a nerve block after separating these two structures.

Median Nerve

The clinician can employ the landmark approach to help find the nerve; then the scan should begin at the carpal tunnel. On ultrasound, the tendons in the carpal tunnel will appear similar to nerves (ie, round and hyperechoic) compared to surrounding muscle. As one continues to slide the probe up the forearm, the tendons will become muscles and a single hyperechoic structure will remain—the median nerve running in between the flexor digitorum superificialis and the flexor digitorum profundus (Figure 3a and 3b). Since there is no artery alongside the median nerve, it can be traced proximally; therefore, the procedure can be performed in any convenient location.

Radial Nerve

Of the three nerves, the radial nerve is the most challenging to visualize on ultrasound. There are two approaches to performing a radial nerve block. In the first approach, the radial nerve can be found just proximal to the wrist crease on the radial side of the radial artery (Figure 4a and 4b). This nerve is typically much smaller and harder to visualize at this level; it can be traced proximally and the block performed at this location. In the second approach, the radial nerve can be located 3 to 4 cm proximal to the elbow with the probe located anterolaterally (Figure 5a and 5b). In this location, the radial nerve lies between the brachialis and the brachioradialis muscles. In this approach, the nerve is much larger and easier to visualize.

 

Performing the Block

Prior to performing an anesthetic block at the ulnar, median, or radial nerve at the wrist, the clinician should first place the patient in a sitting or supine position with the appropriate elbow extended. When performing the block at the radial nerve above the elbow, the hand is typically placed in a resting position on the patient’s abdomen. When localizing the nerve, the angle of the transducer can vary the appearance of the nerve dramatically. To ensure the best possible view, the clinician should slowly “rock” the probe back and forth 10° to 20° in plane with the long axis of the arm, making sure the probe is placed as perpendicular as possible to the nerve. Once the nerve is identified, the clinician can follow it up and down the forearm with the probe to identify the best site to perform the block. In the optimal location, there should be a clear path that is as superficial as possible and avoids any vascular structures. We prefer using an in-plane technique to perform the nerve block to visualize the entire needle as it approaches the nerve. Once the site has been determined, the clinician should slowly inject 4 to 5 cc of anesthetic around the nerve, with the objective to partially surround the nerve. There is no need to completely surround the nerve, as doing so is not necessary to achieve a successful block. The clinician should stop immediately if the patient reports pain or if there is increased resistance, because this could indicate an intraneural injection.

Summary

Ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks are an excellent option for providing regional anesthesia to lacerations and wounds that are too large for a local anesthetic. This technique can provide better analgesic relief, enhancing patient care.

Emergency physicians (EPs) have traditionally used the landmark technique to block the radial, ulnar, and median nerves at the wrist (Figure 1). Many times, however, there is a need to perform the block more proximally. Performing these blocks with real-time ultrasound guidance allows the clinician to visually target the nerve, requires less anesthetic agent, and helps to avoid vascular structures. As with any procedure, employing the appropriate technique, along with practice, increases the success of the block.

Patient Selection

Before performing a nerve block, the EP must first determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate. The EP should be cautious in performing a nerve block on any patient who has paresthesias, tingling, or weakness, as the block will complicate further examinations. Likewise, a nerve block may be contraindicated in a patient in whom compartment syndrome is a concern, since the analgesic effect will inhibit the patient’s ability to sense increasing pain or worsening paresthesias.

Equipment and Preprocedure Care

An ultrasound-guided nerve block is performed using the linear high-frequency probe. Prior to the procedure, standard infection-control measures should be taken—ie, thoroughly cleaning the preinjection site and using a transducer-probe cover. Regarding the choice of anesthetic, either bupivacaine or lidocaine is appropriate; however, bupivacaine will provide a longer duration of analgesia. To administer the anesthetic, we typically use a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle. A review of the literature typically suggests either noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels. There is a paucity of data on needle tip selection. The use of noncutting needle tips or tips with short bevels may be a better choice than a regular cutting needle or a spinal needle because they may decrease the chance of intraneural injection and consequent nerve injury.

Single- Versus Two-Person Technique

Peripheral nerve blocks can be performed using either a single- or two-person technique. In the one-person technique, the operator manipulates both the probe and the syringe. The two-person technique, however, requires the addition of tubing between the needle and the syringe. This can be done with the addition of a small section of intravenous (IV) tubing or by connecting two pieces of tubing together (the type traditionally placed on IV catheters). The operator holds the needle and the probe while the syringe and injection are controlled by the second person. Then, with the ultrasound machine set at the nerve or soft-tissue presetting, the scan begins by placing the probe in a transverse orientation.

Nerve Location and Identification

As previously noted, the ulnar, median, and radial nerves have traditionally been identified through use of the landmark technique just proximal to the wrist. The nerves can be located initially at these sites and then traced proximally.

Ulnar Nerve

The ulnar nerve is located on the ulnar side of the forearm, just proximal to the wrist. (Figure 2a and 2b). The clinician should begin by fanning the probe at the wrist to find the ulnar artery and locate the nerve bundle. The ulnar nerve is also located on the ulnar side of the ulnar artery. The nerve will diverge from the path of the artery as it is traced proximally. To decrease the chance of an arterial injection/injury, the clinician should administer a nerve block after separating these two structures.

Median Nerve

The clinician can employ the landmark approach to help find the nerve; then the scan should begin at the carpal tunnel. On ultrasound, the tendons in the carpal tunnel will appear similar to nerves (ie, round and hyperechoic) compared to surrounding muscle. As one continues to slide the probe up the forearm, the tendons will become muscles and a single hyperechoic structure will remain—the median nerve running in between the flexor digitorum superificialis and the flexor digitorum profundus (Figure 3a and 3b). Since there is no artery alongside the median nerve, it can be traced proximally; therefore, the procedure can be performed in any convenient location.

Radial Nerve

Of the three nerves, the radial nerve is the most challenging to visualize on ultrasound. There are two approaches to performing a radial nerve block. In the first approach, the radial nerve can be found just proximal to the wrist crease on the radial side of the radial artery (Figure 4a and 4b). This nerve is typically much smaller and harder to visualize at this level; it can be traced proximally and the block performed at this location. In the second approach, the radial nerve can be located 3 to 4 cm proximal to the elbow with the probe located anterolaterally (Figure 5a and 5b). In this location, the radial nerve lies between the brachialis and the brachioradialis muscles. In this approach, the nerve is much larger and easier to visualize.

 

Performing the Block

Prior to performing an anesthetic block at the ulnar, median, or radial nerve at the wrist, the clinician should first place the patient in a sitting or supine position with the appropriate elbow extended. When performing the block at the radial nerve above the elbow, the hand is typically placed in a resting position on the patient’s abdomen. When localizing the nerve, the angle of the transducer can vary the appearance of the nerve dramatically. To ensure the best possible view, the clinician should slowly “rock” the probe back and forth 10° to 20° in plane with the long axis of the arm, making sure the probe is placed as perpendicular as possible to the nerve. Once the nerve is identified, the clinician can follow it up and down the forearm with the probe to identify the best site to perform the block. In the optimal location, there should be a clear path that is as superficial as possible and avoids any vascular structures. We prefer using an in-plane technique to perform the nerve block to visualize the entire needle as it approaches the nerve. Once the site has been determined, the clinician should slowly inject 4 to 5 cc of anesthetic around the nerve, with the objective to partially surround the nerve. There is no need to completely surround the nerve, as doing so is not necessary to achieve a successful block. The clinician should stop immediately if the patient reports pain or if there is increased resistance, because this could indicate an intraneural injection.

Summary

Ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve blocks are an excellent option for providing regional anesthesia to lacerations and wounds that are too large for a local anesthetic. This technique can provide better analgesic relief, enhancing patient care.

The extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) examination provides rapid point-of-care (POC) evaluation of patients with thoracoabdominal trauma. This article offers essential clinical pearls to ensure an accurate and thorough examination, including tips on proper gain adjustment, correct probe fanning, shadow removal, visualization of the paracolic gutters, seeking the “spine sign” to determine effusion, and assessing effusion or consolidation of the lung.

Turning Down the Gain

Too much gain (signal amplification) will wash out the ultrasound image, making it challenging to detect small quantities of free fluid. This is especially true in the pelvic windows. Sound waves travel easily through the fluid-filled bladder and a posterior acoustic enhancement artifact will make the far field of the image appear too bright, obscuring small quantities of fluid (Figure 1). To correct this issue without changing the gain of the entire image, the far-field gain can be adjusted on most ultrasound devices by using the time-gain compensation bar or a far field gain knob. 

Fanning Is Key

With the probe placed at a single location on the skin, one can dramatically change the structures visualized by fanning (tilting the probe). The image visualized on the ultrasound screen represents only a single slice of the anatomy—one that is about the thickness of a credit card. A single image therefore can only show structures that are within that thin beam of the probe. Just as one would not make a clinical decision based on a single-slice computed tomography (CT) scan image, the same is true of ultrasound. By fanning the probe toward the anterior and posterior abdomen, the clinician will catch smaller quantities of free fluid within each quadrant. A good rule of thumb is to scan through the entire organ of interest from edge-to-edge (eg, the entire bladder when imaging the pelvic window; the entire kidney in the right upper quadrant (RUQ) window; the entire spleen in the left upper quadrant [LUQ]).

Get Rid of the Rib Shadows

The RUQ and LUQ windows can be difficult to visualize when the view is obscured by rib shadows. To minimize/remove rib shadows, some clinicians prefer to use the phased array probe, which has a small footprint that fits easily in the intercostal space. Clinicians who prefer using the curvilinear probe should place the probe at an oblique angle (Figure 2); this probe will fit between the ribs and remove shadowing artifacts.

Remember the Paracolic

In some patients, the paracolic gutters are the most dependent portion of the abdomen and the first place where free fluid collects. When evaluating the RUQ, the clinician should first identify Morrison’s pouch, which is the interface between the liver and the kidney. After this pouch has been identified, the clinician should slide the probe toward the patient’s feet, paying close attention to the area around the inferior tip of the liver, and continue sliding the probe down to the inferior tip of the kidney, looking for fluid layering above the kidney or the psoas muscle (Figure 3). The same holds true for the LUQ technique. Once one has looked between the spleen and the diaphragm for free fluid, the probe should be moved down to the flank to evaluate the inferior tip of the spleen and the region anterior to the kidney. 

The Left Upper Quadrant—Do Not Let the Stomach Fake You Out

A fluid-filled stomach can be a fake-out for free fluid appearing black on ultrasound (Figure 4). Remember, free fluid in the LUQ window will typically appear between the spleen and the diaphragm or at either pole of the spleen, so the clinician should pay particular attention to these areas. When evaluating the LUQ, a good rule of thumb is to place one’s hand on the patient’s bed while holding the probe; this will ensure that the scan is sufficiently posterior. The probe may also need to be fanned toward the bed to identify the kidneys in the retroperitoneum. 

Look in the Chest and Remember the Spine Sign

Rapidly identifying a hemothorax can be a critical finding on the EFAST examination. Therefore, it is important to remember that air in the lungs scatters sound waves, so one does not normally visualize distinct structures that are deep to the pleural line. This is why the spine is not typically visible in the chest above the level of the diaphragm. When pathology is present, however, the sound waves are not blocked by air-filled lungs and one can see the “spine sign,” which suggests the presence of either effusion or consolidation of the lung (Figure 5).

 

Tough Cardiac Window? Try These Tips

A subxiphoid window is typically used to assess for pericardial effusion. To obtain this view, the clinician usually needs to increase the depth setting by a few centimeters (typically to around 18 cm). When the patient is able to do so, he or she may assist in the examination by bending his or her knees or taking a deep breath to help bring the heart into view. Despite these efforts, however, in some patients, it is technically impossible to obtain a subxiphoid view. In such cases, switching to an alternate view, such as the parasternal window, may be successful in visualizing the subxiphoid region.

Summary

Proper gain adjustment, thorough scanning of the thoracoabdominal region, and knowledge of common artifacts and signs are essential to ensuring an accurate and thorough POC EFAST examination.

The extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) examination provides rapid point-of-care (POC) evaluation of patients with thoracoabdominal trauma. This article offers essential clinical pearls to ensure an accurate and thorough examination, including tips on proper gain adjustment, correct probe fanning, shadow removal, visualization of the paracolic gutters, seeking the “spine sign” to determine effusion, and assessing effusion or consolidation of the lung.

Turning Down the Gain

Too much gain (signal amplification) will wash out the ultrasound image, making it challenging to detect small quantities of free fluid. This is especially true in the pelvic windows. Sound waves travel easily through the fluid-filled bladder and a posterior acoustic enhancement artifact will make the far field of the image appear too bright, obscuring small quantities of fluid (Figure 1). To correct this issue without changing the gain of the entire image, the far-field gain can be adjusted on most ultrasound devices by using the time-gain compensation bar or a far field gain knob. 

Fanning Is Key

With the probe placed at a single location on the skin, one can dramatically change the structures visualized by fanning (tilting the probe). The image visualized on the ultrasound screen represents only a single slice of the anatomy—one that is about the thickness of a credit card. A single image therefore can only show structures that are within that thin beam of the probe. Just as one would not make a clinical decision based on a single-slice computed tomography (CT) scan image, the same is true of ultrasound. By fanning the probe toward the anterior and posterior abdomen, the clinician will catch smaller quantities of free fluid within each quadrant. A good rule of thumb is to scan through the entire organ of interest from edge-to-edge (eg, the entire bladder when imaging the pelvic window; the entire kidney in the right upper quadrant (RUQ) window; the entire spleen in the left upper quadrant [LUQ]).

Get Rid of the Rib Shadows

The RUQ and LUQ windows can be difficult to visualize when the view is obscured by rib shadows. To minimize/remove rib shadows, some clinicians prefer to use the phased array probe, which has a small footprint that fits easily in the intercostal space. Clinicians who prefer using the curvilinear probe should place the probe at an oblique angle (Figure 2); this probe will fit between the ribs and remove shadowing artifacts.

Remember the Paracolic

In some patients, the paracolic gutters are the most dependent portion of the abdomen and the first place where free fluid collects. When evaluating the RUQ, the clinician should first identify Morrison’s pouch, which is the interface between the liver and the kidney. After this pouch has been identified, the clinician should slide the probe toward the patient’s feet, paying close attention to the area around the inferior tip of the liver, and continue sliding the probe down to the inferior tip of the kidney, looking for fluid layering above the kidney or the psoas muscle (Figure 3). The same holds true for the LUQ technique. Once one has looked between the spleen and the diaphragm for free fluid, the probe should be moved down to the flank to evaluate the inferior tip of the spleen and the region anterior to the kidney. 

The Left Upper Quadrant—Do Not Let the Stomach Fake You Out

A fluid-filled stomach can be a fake-out for free fluid appearing black on ultrasound (Figure 4). Remember, free fluid in the LUQ window will typically appear between the spleen and the diaphragm or at either pole of the spleen, so the clinician should pay particular attention to these areas. When evaluating the LUQ, a good rule of thumb is to place one’s hand on the patient’s bed while holding the probe; this will ensure that the scan is sufficiently posterior. The probe may also need to be fanned toward the bed to identify the kidneys in the retroperitoneum. 

Look in the Chest and Remember the Spine Sign

Rapidly identifying a hemothorax can be a critical finding on the EFAST examination. Therefore, it is important to remember that air in the lungs scatters sound waves, so one does not normally visualize distinct structures that are deep to the pleural line. This is why the spine is not typically visible in the chest above the level of the diaphragm. When pathology is present, however, the sound waves are not blocked by air-filled lungs and one can see the “spine sign,” which suggests the presence of either effusion or consolidation of the lung (Figure 5).

 

Tough Cardiac Window? Try These Tips

A subxiphoid window is typically used to assess for pericardial effusion. To obtain this view, the clinician usually needs to increase the depth setting by a few centimeters (typically to around 18 cm). When the patient is able to do so, he or she may assist in the examination by bending his or her knees or taking a deep breath to help bring the heart into view. Despite these efforts, however, in some patients, it is technically impossible to obtain a subxiphoid view. In such cases, switching to an alternate view, such as the parasternal window, may be successful in visualizing the subxiphoid region.

Summary

Proper gain adjustment, thorough scanning of the thoracoabdominal region, and knowledge of common artifacts and signs are essential to ensuring an accurate and thorough POC EFAST examination.

The extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) examination provides rapid point-of-care (POC) evaluation of patients with thoracoabdominal trauma. This article offers essential clinical pearls to ensure an accurate and thorough examination, including tips on proper gain adjustment, correct probe fanning, shadow removal, visualization of the paracolic gutters, seeking the “spine sign” to determine effusion, and assessing effusion or consolidation of the lung.

Turning Down the Gain

Too much gain (signal amplification) will wash out the ultrasound image, making it challenging to detect small quantities of free fluid. This is especially true in the pelvic windows. Sound waves travel easily through the fluid-filled bladder and a posterior acoustic enhancement artifact will make the far field of the image appear too bright, obscuring small quantities of fluid (Figure 1). To correct this issue without changing the gain of the entire image, the far-field gain can be adjusted on most ultrasound devices by using the time-gain compensation bar or a far field gain knob. 

Fanning Is Key

With the probe placed at a single location on the skin, one can dramatically change the structures visualized by fanning (tilting the probe). The image visualized on the ultrasound screen represents only a single slice of the anatomy—one that is about the thickness of a credit card. A single image therefore can only show structures that are within that thin beam of the probe. Just as one would not make a clinical decision based on a single-slice computed tomography (CT) scan image, the same is true of ultrasound. By fanning the probe toward the anterior and posterior abdomen, the clinician will catch smaller quantities of free fluid within each quadrant. A good rule of thumb is to scan through the entire organ of interest from edge-to-edge (eg, the entire bladder when imaging the pelvic window; the entire kidney in the right upper quadrant (RUQ) window; the entire spleen in the left upper quadrant [LUQ]).

Get Rid of the Rib Shadows

The RUQ and LUQ windows can be difficult to visualize when the view is obscured by rib shadows. To minimize/remove rib shadows, some clinicians prefer to use the phased array probe, which has a small footprint that fits easily in the intercostal space. Clinicians who prefer using the curvilinear probe should place the probe at an oblique angle (Figure 2); this probe will fit between the ribs and remove shadowing artifacts.

Remember the Paracolic

In some patients, the paracolic gutters are the most dependent portion of the abdomen and the first place where free fluid collects. When evaluating the RUQ, the clinician should first identify Morrison’s pouch, which is the interface between the liver and the kidney. After this pouch has been identified, the clinician should slide the probe toward the patient’s feet, paying close attention to the area around the inferior tip of the liver, and continue sliding the probe down to the inferior tip of the kidney, looking for fluid layering above the kidney or the psoas muscle (Figure 3). The same holds true for the LUQ technique. Once one has looked between the spleen and the diaphragm for free fluid, the probe should be moved down to the flank to evaluate the inferior tip of the spleen and the region anterior to the kidney. 

The Left Upper Quadrant—Do Not Let the Stomach Fake You Out

A fluid-filled stomach can be a fake-out for free fluid appearing black on ultrasound (Figure 4). Remember, free fluid in the LUQ window will typically appear between the spleen and the diaphragm or at either pole of the spleen, so the clinician should pay particular attention to these areas. When evaluating the LUQ, a good rule of thumb is to place one’s hand on the patient’s bed while holding the probe; this will ensure that the scan is sufficiently posterior. The probe may also need to be fanned toward the bed to identify the kidneys in the retroperitoneum. 

Look in the Chest and Remember the Spine Sign

Rapidly identifying a hemothorax can be a critical finding on the EFAST examination. Therefore, it is important to remember that air in the lungs scatters sound waves, so one does not normally visualize distinct structures that are deep to the pleural line. This is why the spine is not typically visible in the chest above the level of the diaphragm. When pathology is present, however, the sound waves are not blocked by air-filled lungs and one can see the “spine sign,” which suggests the presence of either effusion or consolidation of the lung (Figure 5).

 

Tough Cardiac Window? Try These Tips

A subxiphoid window is typically used to assess for pericardial effusion. To obtain this view, the clinician usually needs to increase the depth setting by a few centimeters (typically to around 18 cm). When the patient is able to do so, he or she may assist in the examination by bending his or her knees or taking a deep breath to help bring the heart into view. Despite these efforts, however, in some patients, it is technically impossible to obtain a subxiphoid view. In such cases, switching to an alternate view, such as the parasternal window, may be successful in visualizing the subxiphoid region.

Summary

Proper gain adjustment, thorough scanning of the thoracoabdominal region, and knowledge of common artifacts and signs are essential to ensuring an accurate and thorough POC EFAST examination.

Point-of-care (POC) ultrasound is a great adjunct to the evaluation and treatment of shoulder dislocations. This modality can assist with identification of the dislocation—especially posterior dislocations, which can be notoriously difficult to diagnose on plain radiography.^1,2 Moreover, it can aid with reduction by guiding intra-articular anesthetic injection, regional anesthesia with an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, or suprascapular nerve block. Following treatment, POC ultrasound also can immediately confirm successful reduction.

Imaging Technique

Since the shoulder joint is a deep structure, ultrasound should be performed using the lower frequency curvilinear probe. The probe should be positioned in the transverse orientation, behind the shoulder and over the scapular spine (Figure 1). The probe is then moved laterally to identify the glenoid; after the glenoid is visualized, the probe is moved further to locate the humeral head and determine its relationship to the glenoid. If the shoulder joint is immediately adjacent to glenoid, then it is in the appropriate anatomical position (Figure 2). If the humeral head is located in the near field of the image above the glenoid on the ultrasound screen, then a posterior dislocation is present—ie, since the probe is touching the posterior shoulder, the top of the screen represents posterior structures and the bottom of the screen represents anterior structures (Figure 3). If the humeral head is below the glenoid in the far field of the image, then the shoulder is anteriorly dislocated (Figure 4). A hyperechoic hemarthrosis is often seen in the joint when shoulder is anteriorly dislocated.

Facilitation of Reduction

Ultrasound-guided intra-articular joint injection is a simple and effective technique to deliver anesthesia to the shoulder.³ Imaging is performed with the same curvilinear probe using sterile precautions—ie, sterile probe and cord cover, sterile gloves, and skin prepped with chlorhexidine. To access the shoulder joint, a long needle, such as a spinal needle, is utilized to deliver a short-acting local anesthetic (eg, 1% lidocaine). It is essential to line up the probe marker with the screen marker to facilitate needle placement and adjustment. The spinal needle is inserted into the lateral deltoid, beneath the acromion and a few centimeters from the edge of the probe. It is then directed by ultrasound in real-time toward the hemarthrosis. Once the needle is within the joint, fluid should be aspirated to confirm return of blood and inject 20 cc of lidocaine (Figure 5). A video demonstrating this technique may be accessed online at https://vimeo.com/156762428. Before performing the reduction technique of choice, the clinician should wait 10 to 15 minutes for the joint injection to take effect.

Summary

Bedside ultrasound is an excellent adjunct to traditional radiographs in the evaluation of patients presenting with shoulder injuries. In addition to its high sensitivity in detecting dislocation, this modality can be used to guide intra-articular treatment and to confirm successful reduction.

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Dr Meer is an assistant professor and director of emergency ultrasound, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Beck is an assistant professor, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Taylor is an assistant professor and director of postgraduate medical education, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta.

Point-of-care (POC) ultrasound is a great adjunct to the evaluation and treatment of shoulder dislocations. This modality can assist with identification of the dislocation—especially posterior dislocations, which can be notoriously difficult to diagnose on plain radiography.^1,2 Moreover, it can aid with reduction by guiding intra-articular anesthetic injection, regional anesthesia with an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, or suprascapular nerve block. Following treatment, POC ultrasound also can immediately confirm successful reduction.

Imaging Technique

Since the shoulder joint is a deep structure, ultrasound should be performed using the lower frequency curvilinear probe. The probe should be positioned in the transverse orientation, behind the shoulder and over the scapular spine (Figure 1). The probe is then moved laterally to identify the glenoid; after the glenoid is visualized, the probe is moved further to locate the humeral head and determine its relationship to the glenoid. If the shoulder joint is immediately adjacent to glenoid, then it is in the appropriate anatomical position (Figure 2). If the humeral head is located in the near field of the image above the glenoid on the ultrasound screen, then a posterior dislocation is present—ie, since the probe is touching the posterior shoulder, the top of the screen represents posterior structures and the bottom of the screen represents anterior structures (Figure 3). If the humeral head is below the glenoid in the far field of the image, then the shoulder is anteriorly dislocated (Figure 4). A hyperechoic hemarthrosis is often seen in the joint when shoulder is anteriorly dislocated.

Facilitation of Reduction

Ultrasound-guided intra-articular joint injection is a simple and effective technique to deliver anesthesia to the shoulder.³ Imaging is performed with the same curvilinear probe using sterile precautions—ie, sterile probe and cord cover, sterile gloves, and skin prepped with chlorhexidine. To access the shoulder joint, a long needle, such as a spinal needle, is utilized to deliver a short-acting local anesthetic (eg, 1% lidocaine). It is essential to line up the probe marker with the screen marker to facilitate needle placement and adjustment. The spinal needle is inserted into the lateral deltoid, beneath the acromion and a few centimeters from the edge of the probe. It is then directed by ultrasound in real-time toward the hemarthrosis. Once the needle is within the joint, fluid should be aspirated to confirm return of blood and inject 20 cc of lidocaine (Figure 5). A video demonstrating this technique may be accessed online at https://vimeo.com/156762428. Before performing the reduction technique of choice, the clinician should wait 10 to 15 minutes for the joint injection to take effect.

Summary

Bedside ultrasound is an excellent adjunct to traditional radiographs in the evaluation of patients presenting with shoulder injuries. In addition to its high sensitivity in detecting dislocation, this modality can be used to guide intra-articular treatment and to confirm successful reduction.

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Dr Meer is an assistant professor and director of emergency ultrasound, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Beck is an assistant professor, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Taylor is an assistant professor and director of postgraduate medical education, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta.

Point-of-care (POC) ultrasound is a great adjunct to the evaluation and treatment of shoulder dislocations. This modality can assist with identification of the dislocation—especially posterior dislocations, which can be notoriously difficult to diagnose on plain radiography.^1,2 Moreover, it can aid with reduction by guiding intra-articular anesthetic injection, regional anesthesia with an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, or suprascapular nerve block. Following treatment, POC ultrasound also can immediately confirm successful reduction.

Imaging Technique

Since the shoulder joint is a deep structure, ultrasound should be performed using the lower frequency curvilinear probe. The probe should be positioned in the transverse orientation, behind the shoulder and over the scapular spine (Figure 1). The probe is then moved laterally to identify the glenoid; after the glenoid is visualized, the probe is moved further to locate the humeral head and determine its relationship to the glenoid. If the shoulder joint is immediately adjacent to glenoid, then it is in the appropriate anatomical position (Figure 2). If the humeral head is located in the near field of the image above the glenoid on the ultrasound screen, then a posterior dislocation is present—ie, since the probe is touching the posterior shoulder, the top of the screen represents posterior structures and the bottom of the screen represents anterior structures (Figure 3). If the humeral head is below the glenoid in the far field of the image, then the shoulder is anteriorly dislocated (Figure 4). A hyperechoic hemarthrosis is often seen in the joint when shoulder is anteriorly dislocated.

Facilitation of Reduction

Ultrasound-guided intra-articular joint injection is a simple and effective technique to deliver anesthesia to the shoulder.³ Imaging is performed with the same curvilinear probe using sterile precautions—ie, sterile probe and cord cover, sterile gloves, and skin prepped with chlorhexidine. To access the shoulder joint, a long needle, such as a spinal needle, is utilized to deliver a short-acting local anesthetic (eg, 1% lidocaine). It is essential to line up the probe marker with the screen marker to facilitate needle placement and adjustment. The spinal needle is inserted into the lateral deltoid, beneath the acromion and a few centimeters from the edge of the probe. It is then directed by ultrasound in real-time toward the hemarthrosis. Once the needle is within the joint, fluid should be aspirated to confirm return of blood and inject 20 cc of lidocaine (Figure 5). A video demonstrating this technique may be accessed online at https://vimeo.com/156762428. Before performing the reduction technique of choice, the clinician should wait 10 to 15 minutes for the joint injection to take effect.

Summary

Bedside ultrasound is an excellent adjunct to traditional radiographs in the evaluation of patients presenting with shoulder injuries. In addition to its high sensitivity in detecting dislocation, this modality can be used to guide intra-articular treatment and to confirm successful reduction.

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Dr Meer is an assistant professor and director of emergency ultrasound, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Beck is an assistant professor, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta. Dr Taylor is an assistant professor and director of postgraduate medical education, department of emergency medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta.