Annals of emergency medicine
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To determine the accuracy and application of pelvic ultrasound performed by emergency physicians in detecting ectopic pregnancy (EP) in complicated first-trimester pregnancies. ⋯ Pelvic ultrasonography performed by emergency physicians can be used to rule out EP and make an accurate diagnosis in most patients with complicated first-trimester pregnancies during the initial ED visit. The remaining patients at risk can be identified and a diagnosis made by means of follow-up ultrasound and serial hCG determinations.
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To determine whether abdominal ultrasound can be used routinely as the primary screening test to identify the need for laparotomy in trauma patients. ⋯ Ultrasound is a sensitive and specific test with which to evaluate trauma patients for abdominal injury requiring surgery. Routine abdominal ultrasound can be performed at the bedside in the emergency department as a timely, noninvasive diagnostic test. This use of a screening abdominal ultrasound examination can improve clinical decision-making for the use of emergency laparotomy. Ultrasound may be a better alternative to CT or diagnostic peritoneal lavage for the initial screening evaluation of abdominal trauma.