FASTultraäänitutkimus

FAST, which stands for Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma, is an ultrasound examination used in emergency medicine and critical care settings. It is a rapid, non-invasive diagnostic tool designed to quickly identify the presence of free fluid in specific body cavities, which can indicate internal bleeding or other serious injuries. The FAST protocol typically involves a series of views of the abdomen, pelvis, and chest. These views target areas where traumatic bleeding is most likely to accumulate, such as the pericardium, pleural spaces, and the space between the liver and spleen (Morison's pouch), as well as around the spleen, kidneys, and bladder. The primary goal of a FAST scan is to determine if a patient with blunt or penetrating trauma has significant internal hemorrhage requiring immediate surgical intervention. It can also be used to assess for other conditions like pericardial effusion or pneumothorax. The examination is performed at the bedside, allowing for quick assessment and immediate decision-making. A positive FAST exam, indicating free fluid, often triggers a decision for surgical exploration. Conversely, a negative FAST exam suggests the absence of significant free fluid, which may lead to further observation or non-operative management. The FAST protocol is a standardized approach, making it reproducible and efficient for emergency physicians and sonographers.