J Emerg Med
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Presentation of congenital megaureter in adult life is rare; patients usually become symptomatic in childhood. ⋯ We report an unusual case of congenital megaureter, identified by point-of-care ultrasound performed to evaluate hypotension. Clinicians performing limited ultrasound examinations must be attentive to incidental findings that will require follow-up.
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Comparative Study
Evaluation of a Cornstarch-Based Ultrasound Gel Alternative for Low-Resource Settings.
Ultrasound is an ideal imaging modality for low-resource settings given its portability, ease of use, and wide range of applications. Commercially available ultrasound gels may be unavailable or cost prohibitive in low-resource settings. ⋯ In this study, a gel made from cornstarch and water was an acceptable coupling medium and provided equally adequate images as compared with commercial ultrasound gel. This inexpensive gel made from ubiquitous materials can be an acceptable alternative to commercial gel in low-resource settings.
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Ultrasound-assisted lumbar puncture in the pediatric emergency medicine setting has not been well established, but ultrasound could serve as a valuable tool in this setting. ⋯ The use of ultrasound in the pediatric emergency setting can be a valuable adjunct with lumbar puncture.
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Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is a rapidly expanding aspect of both the practice and education of emergency physicians. The most effective methods of teaching these valuable skills have not been explored. ⋯ The methods perceived as most effective for POCUS education are small-group format, video-clip examples, and hands-on scanning sessions.