Lung Ultrasonography: An Emerging Practice

Abstract

Objective: Sonography of the chest has traditionally been focused on chest wall and pleural space. Over time, clinicians have developed a practice of bedside lung ultrasonography (LUS) to supplement physical examination. In the wake of the SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, clinicians have increasingly turned to LUS as a tool to assess a patient’s condition. Methods: A literature search was performed using Google Scholar with access to articles through a major Midwestern university. Results: Computed tomography (CT) and radiographs are not always available in all treatment centers. While LUS may be limited, it is important to correlate findings with compatible imaging modalities. This review summarizes lung pathologies and the sonographic appearance of lung abnormalities. Conclusions: Radiology professionals have largely questioned the practice and findings of LUS. However, now, as the most qualified experts in the use of ultrasound, sonographers and radiologists have a duty to be educated in the use of LUS.