The diagnostic values of lung ultrasound for ARDS

W.-T. Chen, H.-Y. Wang, Q.-H. Ye, M. Tang, Y.-W. Wang

Department of Emergency, The First People’s Hospital of Linhai, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China. wangyongweiwl@sina.com

---

• Radiology
• Respiratory Medicine

OBJECTIVE: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a critical disease commonly found in many clinical cases, with a mortality rate of approximately 50%. Early diagnosis and intervention are important for improving ARDS prognosis. In this study, the applications of lung ultrasound in ARDS diagnosis and assessment are reviewed to clarify its key clinical values and application prospects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: According to the standard diagnosis of ARDS based on the Berlin definition, CXR or CT examination should be conducted. However, both the blurred images of the former, as well as the inconvenience and high risks of the latter, impose restrictions on their application in critically ill patients.

RESULTS: Lung ultrasound was shown to improve safety, effectiveness, lacked radiation, can be performed bedside, and offers dynamic functionality.

CONCLUSIONS: It may be a suitable approach to replace or complement traditional imaging examinations with lung ultrasound.

Free PDF Download