1) To review indications for ultrasound in the emergency department. 2) To compare ultrasound with CT. 3) To know advantages and limitations of ultrasound. 4) To provide diagnostic algorithms and approaches. 5) To review current literature.
The utilization of CT in the emergency department has been increasing over the last years. Despite its diagnostic sensitivity to detect acute pathologies CT delivers a relative high radiation exposure to the patient. In many cases, ultrasound may replace CT as first-line diagnostic evaluation of acute conditions. However, it is necessary to know the strengths and weaknesses of ultrasound to correctly interpret the examination and to decide whether further evaluation by CT is needed.
This course is case-based and shows typical indications for ultrasound in the ED as well as problematic cases in which CT should be definitely used instead of ultrasound.
http://media.rsna.org/media/abstract/2011/11001187/zxiy249_11001187_Koerner_MSVE21-05.pdf
Koerner, M,
US in the Emergency Department: Advantages and Drawbacks Compared with CT. Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11001187.html
