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Halpern NA, Tan KS, Bothwell LA, Boyce L, Dulu AO. Defining Intensivists: A Retrospective Analysis of the Published Studies in the United States, 2010-2020. Crit Care Med 2024; 52:223-236. [PMID: 38240506 PMCID: PMC11256975 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Society of Critical Care Medicine last published an intensivist definition in 1992. Subsequently, there have been many publications relating to intensivists. Our purpose is to assess how contemporary studies define intensivist physicians. DESIGN Systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (2010-2020) for publication titles with the terms intensivist, and critical care or intensive care physician, specialist, or consultant. We included studies focusing on adult U.S. intensivists and excluded non-data-driven reports, non-U.S. publications, and pediatric or neonatal ICU reports. We aggregated the study title intensivist nomenclatures and parsed Introduction and Method sections to discern the text used to define intensivists. Fourteen parameters were found and grouped into five definitional categories: A) No definition, B) Background training and certification, C) Works in ICU, D) Staffing, and E) Database related. Each study was re-evaluated against these parameters and grouped into three definitional classes (single, multiple, or no definition). The prevalence of each parameter is compared between groups using Fisher exact test. SETTING U.S. adult ICUs and databases. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 657 studies, 105 (16%) met inclusion criteria. Within the study titles, 17 phrases were used to describe an intensivist; these were categorized as intensivist in 61 titles (58%), specialty intensivist in 30 titles (29%), and ICU/critical care physician in 14 titles (13%). Thirty-one studies (30%) used a single parameter (B-E) as their definition, 63 studies (60%) used more than one parameter (B-E) as their definition, and 11 studies (10%) had no definition (A). The most common parameter "Works in ICU" (C) in 52 studies (50%) was more likely to be used in conjunction with other parameters rather than as a standalone parameter (multiple parameters vs single-parameter studies; 73% vs 17%; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS There was no consistency of intensivist nomenclature or definitions in contemporary adult intensivist studies in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A Halpern
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Critical Care Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Kay See Tan
- Biostatistics Service, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Lilly A Bothwell
- Department of Strategy and Innovation, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Lindsay Boyce
- MSK Library, Technology Division, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Alina O Dulu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Critical Care Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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Sultan LR, Haertter A, Al-Hasani M, Demiris G, Cary TW, Tung-Chen Y, Sehgal CM. Can Artificial Intelligence Aid Diagnosis by Teleguided Point-of-Care Ultrasound? A Pilot Study for Evaluating a Novel Computer Algorithm for COVID-19 Diagnosis Using Lung Ultrasound. AI 2023; 4:875-887. [PMID: 37929255 PMCID: PMC10623579 DOI: 10.3390/ai4040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, there is an increasing demand for remote monitoring technologies to reduce patient and provider exposure. One field that has an increasing potential is teleguided ultrasound, where telemedicine and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) merge to create this new scope. Teleguided POCUS can minimize staff exposure while preserving patient safety and oversight during bedside procedures. In this paper, we propose the use of teleguided POCUS supported by AI technologies for the remote monitoring of COVID-19 patients by non-experienced personnel including self-monitoring by the patients themselves. Our hypothesis is that AI technologies can facilitate the remote monitoring of COVID-19 patients through the utilization of POCUS devices, even when operated by individuals without formal medical training. In pursuit of this goal, we performed a pilot analysis to evaluate the performance of users with different clinical backgrounds using a computer-based system for COVID-19 detection using lung ultrasound. The purpose of the analysis was to emphasize the potential of the proposed AI technology for improving diagnostic performance, especially for users with less experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith R. Sultan
- Department of Radiology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Allison Haertter
- Radiation Oncology Department, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Maryam Al-Hasani
- Ultrasound Research Lab, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
| | - George Demiris
- Informatics Division of the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Theodore W. Cary
- Ultrasound Research Lab, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
| | - Yale Tung-Chen
- Emergency Medicine Department, La Madrida Hospital, 28006 Madrid, Spain
| | - Chandra M. Sehgal
- Ultrasound Research Lab, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
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Leo MM, Potter IY, Zahiri M, Vaziri A, Jung CF, Feldman JA. Using Deep Learning to Detect the Presence and Location of Hemoperitoneum on the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) Examination in Adults. J Digit Imaging 2023; 36:2035-2050. [PMID: 37286904 PMCID: PMC10501965 DOI: 10.1007/s10278-023-00845-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal ultrasonography has become an integral component of the evaluation of trauma patients. Internal hemorrhage can be rapidly diagnosed by finding free fluid with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and expedite decisions to perform lifesaving interventions. However, the widespread clinical application of ultrasound is limited by the expertise required for image interpretation. This study aimed to develop a deep learning algorithm to identify the presence and location of hemoperitoneum on POCUS to assist novice clinicians in accurate interpretation of the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) exam. We analyzed right upper quadrant (RUQ) FAST exams obtained from 94 adult patients (44 confirmed hemoperitoneum) using the YoloV3 object detection algorithm. Exams were partitioned via fivefold stratified sampling for training, validation, and hold-out testing. We assessed each exam image-by-image using YoloV3 and determined hemoperitoneum presence for the exam using the detection with highest confidence score. We determined the detection threshold as the score that maximizes the geometric mean of sensitivity and specificity over the validation set. The algorithm had 95% sensitivity, 94% specificity, 95% accuracy, and 97% AUC over the test set, significantly outperforming three recent methods. The algorithm also exhibited strength in localization, while the detected box sizes varied with a 56% IOU averaged over positive cases. Image processing demonstrated only 57-ms latency, which is adequate for real-time use at the bedside. These results suggest that a deep learning algorithm can rapidly and accurately identify the presence and location of free fluid in the RUQ of the FAST exam in adult patients with hemoperitoneum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M Leo
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston Medical Center, BCD Building, 800 Harrison Ave1St Floor, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Christine F Jung
- Division of Emergency Ultrasound, Department of Emergency Medicine, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chicago Medical School of Rosalind, Franklin University of Medical Sciences, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - James A Feldman
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston Medical Center, BCD Building, 800 Harrison Ave1St Floor, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
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4
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Shi R, Rosario J. Paramedic-Performed Prehospital Tele-Ultrasound: A Powerful Technology or an Impractical Endeavor? A Scoping Review. Prehosp Disaster Med 2023; 38:645-653. [PMID: 37622570 PMCID: PMC10548023 DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x23006234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound with remote assistance (tele-ultrasound) may have potential to improve accessibility of ultrasound for prehospital patients. A review of recent literature on this topic has not been done before, and the feasibility of prehospital tele-ultrasound performed by non-physician personnel is unclear. In an effort to address this, the literature was qualitatively analyzed from January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2021 in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane online databases on prehospital, paramedic-acquired tele-ultrasound, and ten articles were found. There was considerable heterogeneity in the study design, technologies used, and the amount of ultrasound training for the paramedics, preventing cross-comparisons of different studies. Tele-ultrasound has potential to improve ultrasound accessibility by leveraging skills of a remote ultrasound expert, but there are still technological barriers to overcome before determinations on feasibility can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Shi
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Javier Rosario
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
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Zhao RT, Deng J, Ghanem G, Steiger A, Tang L, Haase D, Sadeghinejad SE, Shibata J, Chiem AT. Using tele-ultrasound to teach medical students: A randomised control equivalence study. Australas J Ultrasound Med 2023; 26:91-99. [PMID: 37252618 PMCID: PMC10225007 DOI: 10.1002/ajum.12335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Undergraduate ultrasound education is becoming increasingly important, but its expansion is limited by time, space and the availability of trained faculty. In order to validate an alternative and more accessible teaching model, our aim was to assess whether combining teleguidance and peer-assisted learning to teach ultrasound is as effective as traditional in-person methods. Methods Peer instructors taught 47 second-year medical students ocular ultrasound via either teleguidance or traditional in-person methods. Proficiency was assessed using a multiple-choice knowledge test and objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Confidence, overall experience, and experience with a peer instructor were measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Two one-sided t-tests were used to measure equivalency between the two groups. The null hypothesis that the two groups were not different was rejected when P < 0.05. Results The teleguidance group performed as well as the traditional in-person group in terms of knowledge change, confidence change, OSCE time and OSCE score (p = 0.011, p = 0.006, p = 0.005 and = 0.004, respectively, indicating the two groups are statistically equivalent). The teleguidance group rated the experience highly overall (4.06/5), but less than the traditional group (4.47/5; P = 0.448, indicating statistical difference). Peer instruction was rated 4.35/5 overall. Conclusion Peer-instructed teleguidance was equivalent to in-person instruction with respect to knowledge change, confidence gain and OSCE performance in basic ocular ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee T. Zhao
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jasmine Deng
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ghadi Ghanem
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Athreya Steiger
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lara Tang
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - David Haase
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sima E. Sadeghinejad
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jacqueline Shibata
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineOlive View‐UCLA Medical CenterSylmarCaliforniaUSA
| | - Alan T. Chiem
- Department of Emergency MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California‐Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineOlive View‐UCLA Medical CenterSylmarCaliforniaUSA
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Lo H, Frauendorf V, Wischke S, Schimmath-Deutrich C, Kersten M, Nuernberg M, Nuernberg D, Jenssen C. Ambulatory Use of Handheld Point-of-Care Ultrasound (HH-POCUS) in Rural Brandenburg - A Pilot Study. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2022; 43:584-591. [PMID: 33626573 DOI: 10.1055/a-1354-5958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to evaluate the use of handheld ultrasound devices (HHUS) for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to improve outpatient care in rural Brandenburg. MATERIALS AND METHODS A group of general practitioners (n = 9), palliative care physicians (n = 6), emergency physicians (n = 4), and nurses from palliative care services (n = 5) participated in this study. Following a 3-hour workshop and 2 weeks of individual training, participants performed POCUS using HHUS (HH-POCUS). Indications, examination results, and resulting treatment changes (e. g., acute interventions, new medication) were documented in a standardized data entry form. RESULTS 19 physicians with different ultrasound experience and 5 palliative care nurses attended the workshop program and took part in the study. Three of the participating physicians were out of training in ultrasound and received prolonged supervision. Among 427 HH-POCUS examinations, the FAST scan and kidney scan were performed most often. Pain and dyspnea were the most common indications for HH-POCUS. Among the examinations performed by physicians (n = 311), ascites was the most common pathology (27 % of cases). Using a simplified examination protocol, palliative care nurses diagnosed fluid collections, hydronephrosis and transurethral catheter position or urinary retention. In 80.4 % of physician-performed cases, HH-POCUS made a valuable impact on patient management. HH-POCUS contributed to treatment decisions in 49.5 % of cases, including a change of medication in 29.6 % and performance of therapeutic interventions in 19.9 %. Hospital admission or referral to an ambulatory specialist was initiated due to HH-POCUS findings in 17.7 % of patients. CONCLUSION HH-POCUS helped doctors in rural areas to optimize patient care through rapid on-site collection of therapeutically relevant findings. In addition, it was shown that specialized and motivated nurses can independently detect simple ultrasound findings and thus provide clinically relevant information to doctors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendra Lo
- Institute for Clinical Ultrasound, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
| | | | - Sandra Wischke
- Private Practice, Practice for Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Oberkramer, Germany
| | | | - Markus Kersten
- Private Practice, Practice for General Medicine, Rheinsberg, Germany
| | - Maria Nuernberg
- Institute for Clinical Ultrasound, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Dieter Nuernberg
- Institute for Clinical Ultrasound, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Christian Jenssen
- Institute for Clinical Ultrasound, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
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7
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Duggan NM, Jowkar N, Ma IWY, Schulwolf S, Selame LA, Fischetti CE, Kapur T, Goldsmith AJ. Novice-performed point-of-care ultrasound for home-based imaging. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20461. [PMID: 36443355 PMCID: PMC9703400 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24513-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-performed point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may be feasible for use in home-based healthcare. We investigated whether novice users can obtain lung ultrasound (LUS) images via self-scanning with similar interpretability and quality as experts. Adult participants with no prior medical or POCUS training, who were capable of viewing PowerPoint slides in their home and who could hold a probe to their chest were recruited. After training, volunteers self-performed 8-zone LUS and saved images using a hand-held POCUS device in their own home. Each 8-zone LUS scan was repeated by POCUS experts. Clips were independently viewed and scored by POCUS experts blinded to performing sonographers. Quality and interpretability scores of novice- and expert-obtained LUS images were compared. Thirty volunteers with average age of 42.8 years (Standard Deviation (SD) 15.8), and average body mass index of 23.7 (SD 3.1) were recruited. Quality of novice and expert scans did not differ (median score 2.6, interquartile range (IQR) 2.3-2.9 vs. 2.8, IQR 2.3-3.0, respectively p = 0.09). Individual zone quality also did not differ (P > 0.05). Interpretability of LUS was similar between expert and novice scanners (median 7 zones interpretable, IQR 6-8, for both groups, p = 0.42). Interpretability of novice-obtained scans did not differ from expert scans (median 7 out of 8 zones, IQR 6-8, p = 0.42). Novice-users can self-obtain interpretable, expert-quality LUS clips with minimal training. Patient-performed LUS may be feasible for outpatient home monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Duggan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, NH-2, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Nick Jowkar
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, USA
| | - Irene W Y Ma
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Sara Schulwolf
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, USA
| | - Lauren A Selame
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, NH-2, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Chanel E Fischetti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, NH-2, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Tina Kapur
- Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, USA
| | - Andrew J Goldsmith
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, NH-2, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Small Animal Teleultrasound. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1141-1151. [PMID: 36150791 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Teleradiology is well established in many small animal practices, whereas teleultrasound is slowly gaining prominence. The demand for teleultrasound services in the veterinary profession has increased substantially because access to ultrasound to general practitioners increases faster than the number of imaging specialists and Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) becomes part of the standard of care. Two main methods of teleultrasound currently exist: asynchronous (eg, "store-and-forward") and synchronous (eg, real-time) interpretations. Few standardized protocols for teleultrasound in small animals are available. Similarly, there are no standardized training programs for sonographic examination acquisition and interpretation outside of the traditional diagnostic imaging residency under the purview of the American College of Veterinary Radiology. The success of a telesonographic evaluation largely depends on the relationship between the veterinarian requesting remote assistance and the expert providing support.
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Accorsi TAD, Lima KDA, Silva Filho JRDO, Morbeck RA, Pedrotti CHS, Köhler KF, Racy FDCJ, Cordioli E. Telemedicine can be a feasible means of guiding untrained general practitioners to perform point-of-care ultrasound in life-threatening situations: the case of a field hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Radiol Bras 2022; 55:236-241. [PMID: 35983338 PMCID: PMC9380614 DOI: 10.1590/0100-3984.2021.0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the feasibility of telemedicine using a standardized multiorgan ultrasound assessment protocol to guide untrained on-site general practitioners at a field hospital during a life-threatening crisis. Materials and Methods We evaluated 11 inpatients with shock, with or without acute dyspnea, for whom general practitioners spontaneously requested remote evaluation by a specialist. Results All of the general practitioners accepted the protocol and were able to position the transducer correctly, thus obtaining key images of the internal jugular vein, lungs, and inferior vena cava when guided remotely by a telemedicine physician, who interpreted all of the findings. However, only four (36%) of the on-site general practitioners obtained the appropriate key image of the heart in the left parasternal long-axis view, and only three (27%) received an immediate interpretation of an image from the remote physician. The mean evaluation time was 22.7 ± 12 min (range, 7-42 min). Conclusion Even in life-threatening situations, untrained general practitioners may be correctly guided by telemedicine specialists to perform multiorgan point-of-care ultrasound in order to improve bedside diagnostic evaluation.
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Feasibility of Tele-Training to Acquire Sublingual Microcirculatory Images. ATS Sch 2022; 3:99-111. [PMID: 35634005 PMCID: PMC9132096 DOI: 10.34197/ats-scholar.2021-0078oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Duarte ML, Dos Santos LR, Iared W, Peccin MS. Telementored ultrasonography: a narrative review. SAO PAULO MED J 2022; 140:310-319. [PMID: 35293938 PMCID: PMC9610246 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2020.0607.r2.15092021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teleradiology consists of electronic transmission of radiological images from one location to another, including between countries, for interpretation and/or consultation. It is one of the most successful applications of telemedicine. Combining this methodology with ultrasound (called telesonography) can accelerate the process of making diagnoses. Despite this rationale, the quality of the evidence about the effectiveness and accuracy of teleradiology remains unknown. OBJECTIVE To review the literature on the evidence that exists regarding use of telemedicine for ultrasound in situations of synchronous transmission. DESIGN AND SETTING Narrative review conducted within the evidence-based health program at a federal university in São Paulo (SP), Brazil. METHODS A search of the literature was carried out in April 2020, in the online databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Tripdatabase, CINAHL and LILACS, for original publications in all languages. The reference lists of the studies included and the main reviews on the subject were also evaluated. RESULTS We included ten studies that assessed procedures performed by different healthcare professionals, always with a doctor experienced in ultrasound as a distant mentor. Among these, only one study assessed disease diagnoses in relation to real patients. CONCLUSIONS Despite the promising position of telesonography within telemedicine, no studies with reasonable methodological quality have yet been conducted to demonstrate its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcio Luis Duarte
- MD, MSc. Musculoskeletal Radiologist, WEBIMAGEM, São Paulo (SP), Brazil; and Doctoral Student, Postgraduate Program on Evidence-Based Health, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Lucas Ribeiro Dos Santos
- MD, MSc. Endocrinologist and Professor, Centro Universitário Lusíada (UNILUS), Santos (SP), Brazil; and Doctoral Student, Postgraduate Program on Evidence-Based Health, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Wagner Iared
- MD, PhD. Supervisor Professor, Postgraduate Program on Evidence-Based Health, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Maria Stella Peccin
- PT, PhD. Associate Professor, Department of Human Movement Sciences, and Advisor, Postgraduate Program on Evidence-Based Health, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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A Simple But Often Ignored Formula to Improve Critical Care: "Telemedicine + Ultrasound = Tele-Ultrasound". Crit Care Med 2021; 48:e540. [PMID: 32433092 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000004288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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13
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Tung-Chen Y, González-Viñolis M, Torres Santos-Olmo RM. Tele-ultrasound guided through WhatsApp®. Med Clin (Barc) 2021; 157:e343-e344. [PMID: 33958141 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2020.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yale Tung-Chen
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, España.
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Teleguided self-ultrasound scanning for longitudinal monitoring of muscle mass during spaceflight. iScience 2021; 24:102344. [PMID: 33870138 PMCID: PMC8047175 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of muscle mass is a major concern for long duration spaceflight. However, due to the need for specialized equipment, muscle size has only been assessed before and after spaceflight where ~20% loss is observed. Here, we demonstrate the utility of teleguided self-ultrasound scanning (Tele-SUS) to accurately monitor leg muscle size in astronauts during spaceflight. Over an average of 168 ± 57 days of spaceflight, 74 Tele-SUS sessions were performed. There were no significant differences between panoramic ultrasound images obtained by astronauts seven days prior to landing and expert sonographer after flight or between change in muscle size assessed by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. These findings extend the current capabilities of ultrasound imaging to allow self-monitoring of muscle size with remote guidance. We examined teleguided self-ultrasound to monitor leg muscle size on the ISS Muscle thickness ultrasound does not detect change in muscle size during spaceflight Panoramic ultrasound accurately monitors change in muscle size compared to MRI Teleguided self-ultrasound reveals upper and lower leg muscle loss during spaceflight
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Hussain A, Via G, Melniker L, Goffi A, Tavazzi G, Neri L, Villen T, Hoppmann R, Mojoli F, Noble V, Zieleskiewicz L, Blanco P, Ma IWY, Wahab MA, Alsaawi A, Al Salamah M, Balik M, Barca D, Bendjelid K, Bouhemad B, Bravo-Figueroa P, Breitkreutz R, Calderon J, Connolly J, Copetti R, Corradi F, Dean AJ, Denault A, Govil D, Graci C, Ha YR, Hurtado L, Kameda T, Lanspa M, Laursen CB, Lee F, Liu R, Meineri M, Montorfano M, Nazerian P, Nelson BP, Neskovic AN, Nogue R, Osman A, Pazeli J, Pereira-Junior E, Petrovic T, Pivetta E, Poelaert J, Price S, Prosen G, Rodriguez S, Rola P, Royse C, Chen YT, Wells M, Wong A, Xiaoting W, Zhen W, Arabi Y. Multi-organ point-of-care ultrasound for COVID-19 (PoCUS4COVID): international expert consensus. Crit Care 2020; 24:702. [PMID: 33357240 PMCID: PMC7759024 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-020-03369-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has caused great devastation in the past year. Multi-organ point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) including lung ultrasound (LUS) and focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) as a clinical adjunct has played a significant role in triaging, diagnosis and medical management of COVID-19 patients. The expert panel from 27 countries and 6 continents with considerable experience of direct application of PoCUS on COVID-19 patients presents evidence-based consensus using GRADE methodology for the quality of evidence and an expedited, modified-Delphi process for the strength of expert consensus. The use of ultrasound is suggested in many clinical situations related to respiratory, cardiovascular and thromboembolic aspects of COVID-19, comparing well with other imaging modalities. The limitations due to insufficient data are highlighted as opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arif Hussain
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Gabriele Via
- Cardiac Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Cardiocentro Ticino, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Lawrence Melniker
- New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alberto Goffi
- Department of Medicine and Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Guido Tavazzi
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Paediatric Sciences, Unit of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione Istituto Di Ricovero E Cura a Carattere Scientifico, Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luca Neri
- Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Consultant, King Fahad Specialist Hospital - Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tomas Villen
- School of Medicine, Francisco de Vitoria University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Richard Hoppmann
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Francesco Mojoli
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Università Degli Studi Di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vicki Noble
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Laurent Zieleskiewicz
- Service D'Anesthésie Réanimation Hôpital Nord, APHM, Chemin des Bourrely, 13015, Marseille, France
| | - Pablo Blanco
- Department of Teaching and Research, Hospital "Dr. Emilio Ferreyra", Necochea, Argentina
| | - Irene W Y Ma
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Mahathar Abd Wahab
- Emergency and Trauma Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Abdulmohsen Alsaawi
- King Abdulaziz Medical City, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majid Al Salamah
- College of Public Health and Health Informatics, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Martin Balik
- Dept of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, First Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Diego Barca
- Médico Ecografista IADT, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Karim Bendjelid
- Intensive Care Division, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Belaid Bouhemad
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, C.H.U. Dijon and Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, LNC UMR866, 21000, Dijon, France
| | | | - Raoul Breitkreutz
- FOM University of Economy & Management, Frankfurt Campus, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Juan Calderon
- Hospital General, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, De Zona 4 Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Jim Connolly
- Great North Trauma and Emergency Care Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Roberto Copetti
- Emergency Department, Latisana General Hospital, Latisana, Italy
| | - Francesco Corradi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Young-Rock Ha
- Dept. of Emergency Medicine, Bundang Jesaeng Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Toru Kameda
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine and Department of Emergency Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Christian B Laursen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Francis Lee
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Liu
- Dept. of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Miguel Montorfano
- Department of Ultrasound & Doppler Hospital de Emergencias "Dr. Clemente Alvarez", Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Peiman Nazerian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Firenze, Italia
| | - Bret P Nelson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aleksandar N Neskovic
- Clinical Hospital Zemun, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ramon Nogue
- Faculty of Medecine, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Adi Osman
- Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
| | - José Pazeli
- FAME - Medicine School of Barbacena - MG-Brasil, Barbacena, Brazil
| | | | | | - Emanuele Pivetta
- Città Della Salute E Della Scienza Di Torino Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Jan Poelaert
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy VUB, Univ Hospital Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Gregor Prosen
- Emergency Department, University Clinical Centre Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | | | | | - Colin Royse
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Outcomes Research Consortium, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yale Tung Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mike Wells
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Wang Xiaoting
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wang Zhen
- The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Yaseen Arabi
- King Abdulaziz Medical City, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Zhu X, Merchant KAS, Mohr NM, Wittrock AJ, Bell AL, Ward MM. Real-Time Learning Through Telemedicine Enhances Professional Training in Rural Emergency Departments. Telemed J E Health 2020; 27:441-447. [PMID: 32552479 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2020.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The low volume and the intermittent nature of serious emergencies presenting to rural emergency departments (EDs) make it difficult to plan and deliver pertinent professional training. Telemedicine provides multiple avenues for training rural ED clinicians. This study examines how telemedicine contributes to professional training in rural EDs through both structured and unstructured approaches. Methods: This qualitative study examined training experiences in 18 hospitals located in 6 Midwest states in the United States, which participated in a single hub-and-spoke telemedicine network. Twenty-eight interviews were conducted with 7 physicians, 10 advanced practice providers, and 11 nurses. Standard, inductive qualitative analysis was used to identify key themes related to experiences with telemedicine-based training and its impact on rural ED practice. Results: For structured formal training, rural ED clinicians used asynchronous sessions more often than live sessions. It was reported that the formal training program may not have been fully utilized due to time and workload constraints. Rural clinicians strongly valued unstructured real-time training during telemedicine consultations. It was perceived consistently across professional groups that real-time training occurred frequently and its spontaneous nature was beneficial. Hub providers offering suggestions respectfully and explaining the rationale behind recommendations facilitated real-time learning. Rural providers and nurses perceived several effects of real-time training, including keeping rural practice up to date, instilling confidence, and improving performance. Discussion: Our research shows that telemedicine provided rural ED providers and nurses both formal training and real-time training opportunities. Real-time training occurred frequently, complemented formal training, and was perceived to have many advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhu
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Kimberly A S Merchant
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Nicholas M Mohr
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.,Division of Critical Care, Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | | | | | - Marcia M Ward
- Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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17
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Ramsingh D, Ghazal E, Gordon B, Ross P, Goltiao D, Alschuler M, Pugh J, Holsclaw M, Mason L. Relationship Between Evaluations of Tracheal Tube Position Using Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy in an Infant and Pediatric Population. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9061707. [PMID: 32498387 PMCID: PMC7355502 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9061707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A non-radiographic technique to measure the location of the tracheal tube (TT) in children is of value given the risk of inappropriate TT placement along with concerns about radiation exposure. Airway point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has demonstrated utility in children, but the examinations vary by age and may require non-traditional techniques or utilize less common probes. This study evaluated the performance of measuring the tracheal location of the cuffed TT using a novel, linear probe-based POCUS examination over a wide age range of children. After adjusting for the subjects’ height and TT size, ultrasound measurements of the TT cuff location were compared with fluoroscopy measurements of the TT tip location. Methods: Perioperative pediatric patients (<10 years) requiring a cuffed TT were enrolled. After routine TT placement, ultrasound and fluoroscopy images were obtained. Measurements from the TT cuff to the cricoid cartilage were obtained from the POCUS examination. Chest fluoroscopy was reviewed to measure the TT’s distance from the carina. Both measurements were then compared after scaling for patient height. The duration of the ultrasound examination and image quality scores were also recorded. Results: Forty-one patients were enrolled, with a median age of 3 (25th/75th percentile: 1.50/7.00) years. The POCUS examination identified the TT cuff in all cases with the highest image quality score. The median POCUS exam time was 112 (25th/75th percentile: 80.00/156.00) seconds. There was a strong correlation between the POCUS measurements and the fluoroscopy measurements, r = −0.7575, 95% CI [−0.8638, −0.5866 ], p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a strong correlation between POCUS TT localization measurements and traditional measurements via fluoroscopy. This study further supports the utility of POCUS for pediatric care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davinder Ramsingh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-909-558-4475; Fax: +909-558-0187
| | - Elizabeth Ghazal
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Brent Gordon
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA;
| | - Philip Ross
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Darren Goltiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Matt Alschuler
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Justin Pugh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Matthew Holsclaw
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
| | - Linda Mason
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Medical Center, 11234 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, CA MC-2532-D, USA; (E.G.); (P.R.); (D.G.); (M.A.); (J.P.); (M.H.); (L.M.)
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18
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Salerno A, Tupchong K, Verceles AC, McCurdy MT. Point-of-Care Teleultrasound: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2020; 26:1314-1321. [PMID: 32302520 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine and point-of-care ultrasound have merged to create a field known as teleultrasound (TUS). Real-time TUS involves the transmission of bedside ultrasound (US) images with direct feedback from an US expert. In this review, we summarize the current uses of real-time TUS and discuss its potential future uses. Methods: We performed a literature search (PubMed and EMBase) to assess articles related to real-time TUS. Data were extracted using a standardized collection form, and relevant articles were separated into feasibility or clinical studies. Results: Our search yielded 45 articles, with most of the reports taking place in resource-constrained settings. A large portion of the studies discussed the use of the focused assessment with sonography in trauma exam. Others included musculoskeletal, vascular, and echocardiography. Conclusion: Real-time TUS allows for rapid access to diagnostic imaging in various clinical settings. This technology is poised to expand with many uses on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Salerno
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Keegan Tupchong
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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19
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Ramsingh D, Ma M, Le DQ, Davis W, Ringer M, Austin B, Ricks C. Feasibility Evaluation of Commercially Available Video Conferencing Devices to Technically Direct Untrained Nonmedical Personnel to Perform a Rapid Trauma Ultrasound Examination. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9040188. [PMID: 31739422 PMCID: PMC6963664 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9040188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a rapidly expanding discipline that has proven to be a valuable modality in the hospital setting. Recent evidence has demonstrated the utility of commercially available video conferencing technologies, namely, FaceTime (Apple Inc, Cupertino, CA, USA) and Google Glass (Google Inc, Mountain View, CA, USA), to allow an expert POCUS examiner to remotely guide a novice medical professional. However, few studies have evaluated the ability to use these teleultrasound technologies to guide a nonmedical novice to perform an acute care POCUS examination for cardiac, pulmonary, and abdominal assessments. Additionally, few studies have shown the ability of a POCUS-trained cardiac anesthesiologist to perform the role of an expert instructor. This study sought to evaluate the ability of a POCUS-trained anesthesiologist to remotely guide a nonmedically trained participant to perform an acute care POCUS examination. Methods: A total of 21 nonmedically trained undergraduate students who had no prior ultrasound experience were recruited to perform a three-part ultrasound examination on a standardized patient with the guidance of a remote expert who was a POCUS-trained cardiac anesthesiologist. The examination included the following acute care POCUS topics: (1) cardiac function via parasternal long/short axis views, (2) pneumothorax assessment via pleural sliding exam via anterior lung views, and (3) abdominal free fluid exam via right upper quadrant abdominal view. Each examiner was given a handout with static images of probe placement and actual ultrasound images for the three views. After a brief 8 min tutorial on the teleultrasound technologies, a connection was established with the expert, and they were guided through the acute care POCUS exam. Each view was deemed to be complete when the expert sonographer was satisfied with the obtained image or if the expert sonographer determined that the image could not be obtained after 5 min. Image quality was scored on a previously validated 0 to 4 grading scale. The entire session was recorded, and the image quality was scored during the exam by the remote expert instructor as well as by a separate POCUS-trained, blinded expert anesthesiologist. Results: A total of 21 subjects completed the study. The average total time for the exam was 8.5 min (standard deviation = 4.6). A comparison between the live expert examiner and the blinded postexam reviewer showed a 100% agreement between image interpretations. A review of the exams rated as three or higher demonstrated that 87% of abdominal, 90% of cardiac, and 95% of pulmonary exams achieved this level of image quality. A satisfaction survey of the novice users demonstrated higher ease of following commands for the cardiac and pulmonary exams compared to the abdominal exam. Conclusions: The results from this pilot study demonstrate that nonmedically trained individuals can be guided to complete a relevant ultrasound examination within a short period. Further evaluation of using telemedicine technologies to promote POCUS should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davinder Ramsingh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Health, 11234 Anderson St. MC-2532, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Michael Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, UCI Medical Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (M.M.); (C.R.)
| | - Danny Quy Le
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - Warren Davis
- Department of Anesthesiology, St. Joseph Medical Center, 7601 Osler Drive, Towson, MD 21204, USA;
| | - Mark Ringer
- Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA;
| | - Briahnna Austin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Loma Linda University Health, 11234 Anderson St. MC-2532, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Cameron Ricks
- Department of Anesthesiology, UCI Medical Center, Orange, CA 92868, USA; (M.M.); (C.R.)
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20
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Use of a Smartphone-Based Augmented Reality Video Conference App to Remotely Guide a Point of Care Ultrasound Examination. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9040159. [PMID: 31652998 PMCID: PMC6963819 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9040159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Reports on the use of various smartphone-based video conference applications to guide point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) examinations in resource-limited settings have been described. However, the use of an augmented reality-enabled smartphone video conference application in this same manner has not been described. Presented is a case in which such as application was used to remotely guide a point of care ultrasound examination.
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21
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Britton N, Miller MA, Safadi S, Siegel A, Levine AR, McCurdy MT. Tele-Ultrasound in Resource-Limited Settings: A Systematic Review. Front Public Health 2019; 7:244. [PMID: 31552212 PMCID: PMC6738135 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine, or healthcare delivery from a distance, has evolved over the past 50 years and helped alter health care delivery to patients around the globe. Its integration into numerous domains has permitted high quality care that transcends obstacles of geographic distance, lack of access to health care providers, and cost. Ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool and its application within telemedicine (“tele-ultrasound”) has advanced substantially in recent years, particularly in high-income settings. However, the utility of tele-ultrasound in resource-limited settings is less firmly established. Objective: To determine whether remote tele-ultrasound is a feasible, accurate, and care-altering imaging tool in resource-limited settings. Data Sources: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase. Study Eligibility Criteria: Twelve original articles met the following eligibility criteria: full manuscript available, written in English, including a direct patient-care intervention, performed in a resource-limited setting, images sent to a remote expert reader for interpretation and feedback, contained objective data on the impact of tele-ultrasound. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: Abstracts were independently screened by two authors against inclusion criteria for full-text review. Any discrepancies were settled by a senior author. Data was extracted from each study using a modified Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group's data extraction template. Study bias was evaluated using the ROBINS-I tool. Results: The study results reflect the diverse applications of tele-ultrasound in low-resource settings. Africa was the most common study location. The specialties of cardiology and obstetrics comprised most studies. Two studies primarily relied on smartphones for image recording and transmission. Real-time, rather than asynchronous, tele-ultrasound image interpretation occurred in five of the 12 studies. The most common outcome measures were image quality, telemedicine system requirements, diagnostic accuracy, and changes in clinical management. Limitations: The studies included were of poor quality with a dearth of randomized control trials and with significant between study heterogeneity which resulted in incomplete data and made cross study comparison difficult. Conclusions and Implications of Key Findings: Low-quality evidence suggests that ultrasound images acquired in resource-limited settings and transmitted using a telemedical platform to an expert interpreter are of satisfactory quality and value for clinical diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noel Britton
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael A Miller
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sami Safadi
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ariel Siegel
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrea R Levine
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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22
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Development of Public Key Cryptographic Algorithm Using Matrix Pattern for Tele-Ultrasound Applications. MATHEMATICS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/math7080752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A novel public key cryptographic algorithm using a matrix pattern is developed to improve encrypting strength. Compared to the Rivest–Sharmir–Adleman (RSA) and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) algorithms, our proposed algorithm has superior encrypting strength due to several unknown quantities and one additional sub-equation during the encrypting process. Our proposed algorithm also provides a faster encoding/decoding speed when the patient’s images for tele-ultrasound applications are transmitted/received, compared to the RSA and ECC encrypting algorithms, because it encodes/decodes the plain memory block by simple addition and multiplication operations of n terms. However, the RSA and ECC algorithms encode/decode each memory block using complex mathematical exponentiation and congruence. To implement encrypting algorithms for tele-ultrasound applications, a streaming server was constructed to transmit the images to the systems using ultrasound machines. Using the obtained ultrasound images from a breast phantom, we compared our developed algorithm, utilizing a matrix pattern, with the RSA and ECC algorithms. The elapsed average time for our proposed algorithm is much faster than that for the RSA and ECC algorithms.
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23
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Gottlieb M, Holladay D, Peksa GD. Point-of-Care Ocular Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Retinal Detachment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Acad Emerg Med 2019; 26:931-939. [PMID: 30636351 DOI: 10.1111/acem.13682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ocular complaints are common presentations to the emergency department (ED). Among these, retinal detachment can cause significant vision loss if not rapidly diagnosed and referred for appropriate treatment. Point-of-care ultrasound has been suggested to identify the diagnosis rapidly when the ocular examination is limited or the ophthalmology service is not readily available. However, prior studies were limited by small sample sizes, resulting in wide ranges of potential accuracy. The primary outcome for this review was to determine the test characteristics of point-of-care ocular ultrasound for the diagnosis of retinal detachment. METHODS PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, LILACS, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and bibliographies of selected articles were assessed for all prospective and randomized controlled trials assessing the accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound for identifying retinal detachment. Data were dual extracted into a predefined worksheet and quality analysis was performed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Data were summarized and a meta-analysis was performed with planned subgroup analyses by location and provider specialty. This review was registered with PROSPERO CRD42018097288. There was no funding for this review. RESULTS Eleven studies (n = 844 patients) were identified. Overall, ultrasound was 94.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 78.4% to 98.6%) sensitive and 96.3% (95% CI = 89.2% to 98.8%) specific for the diagnosis of retinal detachment with a positive likelihood ratio of 25.2 (95% CI = 8.1 to 78.0) and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.06 (95% CI = 0.01 to 0.25). Subgroup analysis found that ultrasound was more accurate among ED patients, but was not significantly different when performed by ED or non-ED providers. CONCLUSIONS Point-of-care ocular ultrasound is sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of retinal detachment. Future studies should determine the ideal training protocol and the influence of color Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound on diagnostic accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gottlieb
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Dallas Holladay
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Gary D Peksa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
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24
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Abstract
Intensive care unit (ICU) telemedicine is an established entity that has the ability to not only improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and safety of critical care, but to also serve as a tool to combat staffing shortages and resource-limited environments. Several areas for future innovation exist within the field, including the use of advanced practice providers, robust inclusion in medical education, and concurrent application of advanced machine learning. The globalization of critical care services will also likely be predominantly delivered by ICU telemedicine. Limitations faced by the field include technical issues, financial concerns, and organizational elements.
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Brief training increases nurses' comfort using tele-ultrasound: A feasibility study. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2018; 51:45-49. [PMID: 30514602 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses and other non-physician providers have demonstrated proficiency at obtaining images in the tele-ultrasound system. However, use of this skill requires comfort with the procedure and willingness to incorporate it into practice. OBJECTIVES To assess 1) level of comfort of non-physician providers performing tele-ultrasound before and after brief training and 2) feasibility of implementing an educational programme that improves level of comfort. METHODS Feasibility study including a brief training session followed by hands-on tele-ultrasound. The pilot cohort performed tele-ultrasound on a healthy volunteer. The clinical cohort performed tele-ultrasound on criticalli ill patients with shock or respiratory failure. Remote intensivists provided real-time guidance via tele-medicine technology. Each participant completed a survey assessing training experience and level of comfort before and after training. RESULTS Sixteen non-physician providers participated. All participants agreed that the training session prepared them for image acquisition and that the training experience was positive. The number of participants comfortable with ultrasound improved significantly (before vs. after training: 5/16 [31%] vs. 16/16 [100%], mean Likert score 2.7 vs. 4.8, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS After brief training, participants could comfortably perform tele-ultrasound and were more willing to incorporate it into tele-ICU-directed care. Results support conducting a larger-scale trial of tele-US to assess clinical utility.
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Poland S, Frey JA, Khobrani A, Ondrejka JE, Ruhlin MU, George RL, Gothard MD, Ahmed RA. Telepresent Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma Examination Training Versus Traditional Training for Medical Students: A Simulation-Based Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:1985-1992. [PMID: 29388234 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Telepresent education is becoming an important modality in medical education, as it provides a means for instructors to lead education sessions via videoconferencing technologies. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of telepresent ultrasound training versus traditional in-person ultrasound training. METHODS Medical student cohorts were educated by either traditional in-person instruction or telementoring on how to perform a focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) examination. Effectiveness was evaluated by pre- and post-multiple-choice tests (knowledge), confidence surveys, and summative simulation scenarios (hands-on FAST simulation). Formative simulation scenario debriefings were evaluated by each student using the Debriefing Assessment for Simulation in Healthcare student version (DASH-SV). RESULTS Each method of instruction had significant increases in knowledge, confidence, and hands-on FAST simulation performance (P < .05). The collective increase in knowledge was greater for the in-person group, whereas the improvement in FAST examination performance during simulations was greater for the telementored group. Confidence gains were comparable between the groups. The DASH-SV scores were significantly higher for the in-person group for each criterion; however, both methods were deemed effective via median scoring. CONCLUSIONS Telepresent education is a viable option for teaching the FAST examination to medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Poland
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Jennifer A Frey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ahmad Khobrani
- Department of Medical Education, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Jason E Ondrejka
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael U Ruhlin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | - Richard L George
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Rami A Ahmed
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Department of Medical Education, Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio, USA
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, USA
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Levine AR, Robertson TE, Papali A, Verceles AC, McCurdy MT. Tele-Medicine and Point-of-Care Ultrasound: A New Paradigm for Resource-Constrained Settings. Chest 2018; 149:1580-1. [PMID: 27287579 DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2016.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea R Levine
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System, Ringgold Standard Institution, Pittsburgh, PA.
| | - Thomas E Robertson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System, Ringgold Standard Institution, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Alfred Papali
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Ringgold Standard Institution, Baltimore, MD
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Ringgold Standard Institution, Baltimore, MD
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Ringgold Standard Institution, Baltimore, MD
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Olivieri PP, Verceles AC, Hurley JM, Zubrow MT, Jeudy J, McCurdy MT. A Pilot Study of Ultrasonography-Naïve Operators' Ability to Use Tele-Ultrasonography to Assess the Heart and Lung. J Intensive Care Med 2018; 35:672-678. [PMID: 29806509 DOI: 10.1177/0885066618777187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Remotely tele-mentored ultrasound (RTMUS) involves the real-time guidance of US-naïve providers as they perform point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) by remotely located, US-proficient providers via telemedicine. The concordance between RTMUS and POCUS in the evaluation of critically ill patients has not been reported. This study sought to evaluate the concordance between RTMUS and POCUS for the cardiopulmonary evaluation of patients in acute respiratory insufficiency and/or shock. METHODS Ultrasound-naÏve nurses performed RTMUS on critically ill patients. Concordance between RTMUS and POCUS (performed by critical care fellows) in the evaluation of the heart and lungs was reported. The test characteristics of RTMUS were calculated using POCUS as a gold standard. Concordance between RTMUS and available transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and computed tomography (CT) scans was also reported. RESULTS Twenty patients were enrolled. Concordance between RTMUS and POCUS was good (90%-100%) for left ventricle function, right ventricle (RV) dilatation/dysfunction, pericardial effusion, lung sliding, pulmonary interstitial syndrome, pleural effusion, and fair (80%) for lung consolidation. Concordance between RTMUS and TTE or CT was similar. RTMUS was highly specific (88%-100%) for all abnormalities evaluated and highly sensitive (89%-100%) for most abnormalities although sensitivity for the detection of RV dilatation/dysfunction (33%) and pulmonary interstitial syndrome (71%) was negatively impacted by false negatives. CONCLUSIONS RTMUS may be a reasonable substitute for POCUS in the cardiopulmonary evaluation of patients with acute respiratory insufficiency and/or shock. These findings should be validated on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter P Olivieri
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julie M Hurley
- University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, Intensive Care Unit, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marc T Zubrow
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Program in Trauma, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,University of Maryland eCare, University of Maryland Medical System, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jean Jeudy
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
Ultrasound is an efficacious, versatile and affordable imaging technique in emergencies, but has limited utility without expert interpretation. Telesonography, in which experts may remotely support the use of ultrasound through a telecommunications link, may broaden access to ultrasound and improve patient outcomes, particularly in remote settings. This review assesses the literature regarding telesonography in emergency medicine, focussing on evidence of feasibility, diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility. A systematic search was performed for articles published from 1946 to February 2017 using the Cochrane, Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Further searches utilising Scopus, Google Scholar, and citation lists were conducted. 4388 titles were identified and screened against inclusion criteria which resulted in the inclusion of 28 papers. These included feasibility, diagnostic accuracy and clinical pilot studies. Study design, methodology and quality were heterogeneous. There was good evidence of feasibility from multiple studies. Where sufficient bandwidth and high quality components were used, diagnostic accuracy was slightly reduced by image transmission. There was evidence of clinical utility in remote hospitals and low-resource settings, although reliability was infrequently reported. Further exploratory research is required to determine minimum requirements for image quality, bandwidth, frame rate and to assess diagnostic accuracy. Clinical trials in remote settings are justifiable. Telecommunication options will depend on local requirements; no one system conveys universal advantages. The methodological quality of research in this field must improve: studies should be designed to minimise bias, and must include details of their methods to allow replication. Analysis of cost effectiveness and sustainability should be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leila Eadie
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Aberdeen, Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Wilson
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Aberdeen, Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Epstein D, Petersiel N, Klein E, Marcusohn E, Aviran E, Harel R, Azzam ZS, Neuberger A, Fuchs L. Pocket-size point-of-care ultrasound in rural Uganda - A unique opportunity "to see", where no imaging facilities are available. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 23:87-93. [PMID: 29317333 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 12/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the developing world, only a small minority of patients have access to radiological services. Over the past decade, technological developments of ultrasound equipment have led to the emergence of point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS), which is widely used by healthcare professionals of nearly all specialties. We hypothesized that physicians with only basic POCUS training, but with telemedicine support, can use POCUS successfully in rural hospitals in sub-Saharan Africa. METHOD During a 14-day voluntary clinical work session in a rural hospital in central Uganda, bedside ultrasound scans were performed by use of a pocket-size portable machine by a physician who underwent a five-day training period. All the POCUS studies were reviewed by radiologists and cardiologists abroad with the use of telemedicine. RESULTS During the study period, 30% of patients received a POCUS-augmented physical examination. 16 out of 23 patients (70%) had positive findings; in 20 of them (87%), the management was changed. The technique was successfully used on trauma casualties, patients suffering from shock, patients with cardiorespiratory symptoms, and patients undergoing invasive procedures. CONCLUSIONS In a very resource-limited environment, POCUS conducted by basically trained primary care physicians with telemedicine support is a powerful diagnostic tool in a variety of medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Epstein
- Department of Internal Medicine "B", Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Neta Petersiel
- Department of Internal Medicine "B", Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Erez Klein
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Rambam Health Care Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Erez Marcusohn
- Department of Internal Medicine "B", Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eyal Aviran
- Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Reut Harel
- Department of Internal Medicine "C", Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | - Zaher S Azzam
- Department of Internal Medicine "B", Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Rappaport's Faculty of Medicine, The Technion Institute, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ami Neuberger
- Department of Internal Medicine "B", Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Rappaport's Faculty of Medicine, The Technion Institute, Haifa, Israel; Division of Infectious Diseases, Rambam Health Care Center, Haifa, Israel
| | - Lior Fuchs
- Medical Intensive Care Unit, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva, Israel; Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
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Skupski R, Toth A, McCurdy MT, Kappler S, Lantry J, Pyran G, Zimmer D, Dynako J, Grisoli A, Zimmer D, Wilson J, Patel BM, Callisen H, Chapital A, Colas LN, Augustin ME, Edema N, Brocco ED, Frechette R, Thompson M, Corcoran J, Mazowiecki M, Walsh M. Utilizing Anesthesiologists, Emergency and Critical Care Physicians with Telemedicine Monitoring to Develop Intubation and Ventilation Services in an Intensive Care Unit in the Austere Medical Environment: A Case Series. Expansion of the EP/CC GAS Project. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.4236/ojanes.2018.86019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Fedor PJ, Burns B, Lauria M, Richmond C. Major Trauma Outside a Trauma Center: Prehospital, Emergency Department, and Retrieval Considerations. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2017; 36:203-218. [PMID: 29132578 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2017.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Care of the critically injured begins well before the patient arrives at a large academic trauma center. It is important to understand the continuum of care from the point of injury in the prehospital environment, through the local hospital and retrieval, until arrival at a trauma center capable of definitive care. This article highlights the important aspects of trauma assessment and management outside of tertiary or quaternary care hospitals. Key elements of each phase of care are reviewed, including management pearls and institutional strategies to facilitate effective and efficient treatment of trauma patients from the point of injury forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preston J Fedor
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Prehospital, Austere and Disaster Medicine, University of New Mexico, 1 University of New Mexico, MSC11 6025, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, USA.
| | - Brian Burns
- Greater Sydney Area HEMS, NSW Ambulance, NSW 2200, Australia; Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Lauria
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Advanced Response Team (DHART), Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | - Clare Richmond
- Greater Sydney Area HEMS, NSW Ambulance, NSW 2200, Australia; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Abstract
Ultrasound has evolved into a core bedside tool for diagnostic and management purposes for all subsets of adult and pediatric critically-ill patients. Teleintensive care unit coverage has undergone a similar rapid expansion period throughout the United States. Round-the-clock access to ultrasound equipment is very common in today's intensive care unit, but 24/7 coverage with staff trained to acquire and interpret point-of-care ultrasound in real time is lagging behind equipment availability. Medical trainees and physician extenders require attending level supervision to ensure consistent image acquisition and accurate interpretation. Teleintensivists can extend the utility of ultrasound by supervising and guiding providers without or with only partial training in ultrasound, and also by extending direct trainee ultrasound supervision to time periods when no direct bedside attending supervisor is available, and when treatment decisions otherwise would have been made without supervision and feedback on image acquisition and interpretation. Nursing staff without ultrasound training can also be directed to perform basic ultrasound exams, which may have immediate diagnostic and/or treatment consequences, thereby overcoming access barriers in the absence of physicians or physician extenders. We discuss 4 real-life clinical scenarios in which teleintensivist supervision extended and standardized bedside ultrasound exams to guide management decisions which significantly impacted patient outcomes.
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Tele-Ultrasound to Guide Management of a Patient with Circulatory Shock. Am J Med 2017; 130:e205-e206. [PMID: 28249665 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2016.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Robertson TE, Levine AR, Verceles AC, Buchner JA, Lantry JH, Papali A, Zubrow MT, Colas LN, Augustin ME, McCurdy MT. Remote tele-mentored ultrasound for non-physician learners using FaceTime: A feasibility study in a low-income country. J Crit Care 2017; 40:145-148. [PMID: 28402924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2017.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ultrasound (US) is a burgeoning diagnostic tool and is often the only available imaging modality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, bedside providers often lack training to acquire or interpret US images. We conducted a study to determine if a remote tele-intensivist could mentor geographically removed LMIC providers to obtain quality and clinically useful US images. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nine Haitian non-physician health care workers received a 20-minute training on basic US techniques. A volunteer was connected to an intensivist located in the USA via FaceTime. The intensivist remotely instructed the non-physicians to ultrasound five anatomic sites. The tele-intensivist evaluated the image quality and clinical utility of performing tele-ultrasound in a LMIC. RESULTS The intensivist agreed (defined as "agree" or "strongly agree" on a five-point Likert scale) that 90% (57/63) of the FaceTime images were high quality. The intensivist felt comfortable making clinical decisions using FaceTime images 89% (56/63) of the time. CONCLUSIONS Non-physicians can feasibly obtain high-quality and clinically relevant US images using video chat software in LMICs. Commercially available software can connect providers in institutions in LMICs to geographically removed intensivists at a relatively low cost and without the need for extensive training of local providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Robertson
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 200 N Lothrop St, Montefiore N715, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Andrea R Levine
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3459 Fifth Avenue, 628 NW, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | - Jessica A Buchner
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | - James H Lantry
- Uniform Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Alfred Papali
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States; Institute for Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | - Marc T Zubrow
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States; Program in Trauma, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States; University of Maryland eCare, University of Maryland Medical System, 110 S. Paca St., 5th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
| | - L Nathalie Colas
- Department of Medicine, St. Luke Family Hospital, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Marc E Augustin
- Department of Medicine, St. Luke Family Hospital, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States.
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Monti J. Revolution or Evolution? A Proposal for the Integration of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Into Physician Assistant Clinical Practice. J Physician Assist Educ 2017; 28:27-32. [PMID: 28114159 DOI: 10.1097/jpa.0000000000000101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Advances in technology and increased affordability of machines have allowed ultrasound to become ubiquitous across the spectrum of medical care. Increasing portability has brought ultrasound to the point of care in multiple medical specialties. Formal ultrasound training is rapidly being incorporated into multispecialty residency programs and undergraduate medical education curricula, yet little formal training exists for physician assistants (PAs) on this emerging clinical adjunct. This article outlines recommendations for and barriers to the incorporation of bedside ultrasound into PA clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Monti
- Jonathan Monti, DScPA, PA-C, RDMS, is director of the US Army/Baylor Emergency Medicine Physician Assistant Residency Program and deputy director of the Emergency Ultrasound Fellowship Program in the Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center, Joint Base Lewis McChord, Tacoma, Washington
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Sjogren AR, Leo MM, Feldman J, Gwin JT. Image Segmentation and Machine Learning for Detection of Abdominal Free Fluid in Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma Examinations: A Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2016; 35:2501-2509. [PMID: 27738293 PMCID: PMC7929643 DOI: 10.7863/ultra.15.11017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this pilot study was to test the feasibility of automating the detection of abdominal free fluid in focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) examinations. Perihepatic views from 10 FAST examinations with positive results and 10 FAST examinations with negative results were used. The sensitivity and specificity compared to manual classification by trained physicians was evaluated. The sensitivity and specificity (95% confidence interval) were 100% (69.2%-100%) and 90.0% (55.5%-99.8%), respectively. These findings suggest that computerized detection of free fluid on abdominal ultrasound images may be sensitive and specific enough to aid clinicians in their interpretation of a FAST examination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megan M Leo
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts USA
| | - James Feldman
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts USA
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Abstract
Over the past few decades, point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) has come to play a major role in the practice of emergency medicine. Despite its numerous benefits, there has been a slow uptake of PoCUS use in rural emergency departments. Surveys conducted across Canada and the United States have identified a lack of equipment, training, funding, quality assurance, and an inability to maintain skills as major barriers to PoCUS use. Potential solutions include expanding residency training in ultrasound skills, extending funding for PoCUS training to rural physicians in practice, moving PoCUS training courses to rural sites, and creating telesonography training for rural physicians. With these barriers identified and solutions proposed, corrective measures must be taken so that the benefits of PoCUS are extended to patients in rural Canada where, arguably, it has the greatest potential for benefit when access to advanced imaging is not readily available.
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Kirkpatrick AW, McKee I, McKee JL, Ma I, McBeth PB, Roberts DJ, Wurster CL, Parfitt R, Ball CG, Oberg S, Sevcik W, Hamilton DR. Remote just-in-time telementored trauma ultrasound: a double-factorial randomized controlled trial examining fluid detection and remote knobology control through an ultrasound graphic user interface display. Am J Surg 2016; 211:894-902.e1. [PMID: 27020901 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2016.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remote-telementored ultrasound involves novice examiners being remotely guided by experts using informatic-technologies. However, requiring a novice to perform ultrasound is a cognitively demanding task exacerbated by unfamiliarity with ultrasound-machine controls. We incorporated a randomized evaluation of using remote control of the ultrasound functionality (knobology) within a study in which the images generated by distant naive examiners were viewed on an ultrasound graphic user interface (GUI) display viewed on laptop computers by mentors in different cities. METHODS Fire-fighters in Edmonton (101) were remotely mentored from Calgary (n = 65), Nanaimo (n = 19), and Memphis (n = 17) to examine an ultrasound phantom randomized to contain free fluid or not. Remote mentors (2 surgeons, 1 internist, and 1 ED physician) were randomly assigned to use GUI knobology control during mentoring (GUIK+/GUIK-). RESULTS Remote-telementored ultrasound was feasible in all cases. Overall accuracy for fluid detection was 97% (confidence interval = 91 to 99%) with 3 false negatives (FNs). Positive/negative likelihood ratios were infinity/0.0625. One FN occurred with the GUIK+ and 2 without (GUIK-). There were no statistical test performance differences in either group (GUIK+ and GUIK-). CONCLUSIONS Ultrasound-naive 1st responders can be remotely mentored with high accuracy, although providing basic remote control of the knobology did not affect outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Kirkpatrick
- Regional Trauma Services, University of Calgary, 1403 29 St NW Calgary, Alberta, T2N 2T9, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Canadian Forces Medical Services, Canada.
| | - Ian McKee
- Edmonton Fire Department, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Irene Ma
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Paul B McBeth
- Regional Trauma Services, University of Calgary, 1403 29 St NW Calgary, Alberta, T2N 2T9, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Derek J Roberts
- Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Charles L Wurster
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, Nanaimo, British Columbia
| | | | - Chad G Ball
- Regional Trauma Services, University of Calgary, 1403 29 St NW Calgary, Alberta, T2N 2T9, Canada; Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | - Douglas R Hamilton
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Levine AR, Buchner JA, Verceles AC, Zubrow MT, Mallemat HA, Papali A, McCurdy MT. Ultrasound images transmitted via FaceTime are non-inferior to images on the ultrasound machine. J Crit Care 2016; 33:51-5. [PMID: 27006267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2016.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Remote telementored ultrasound (RTMUS) systems can deliver ultrasound (US) expertise to regions lacking highly trained bedside ultrasonographers and US interpreters. To date, no studies have evaluated the quality and clinical utility of US images transmitted using commercially available RTMUS systems. METHODS This prospective pilot evaluated the quality of US images (right internal jugular vein, lung apices and bases, cardiac subxiphoid view, bladder) obtained using a commercially available iPad operating FaceTime software. A bedside non-physician obtained images and a tele-intensivist interpreted them. All US screen images were simultaneously saved on the US machine and captured via a FaceTime screen shot. The tele-intensivist and an independent US expert rated image quality and utility in guiding clinical decisions. RESULTS The tele-intensivist rated FaceTime images as high quality (90% [69/77]) and could comfortably make clinical decisions using these images (96% [74/77]). Image quality did not differ between FaceTime and US images (97% (75/77). Strong inter-rater reliability existed between tele-intensivist and US expert evaluations (Spearman's rho 0.43; P<.001). CONCLUSION An RTMUS system using commercially available two-way audiovisual technology can transmit US images without quality degradation. For most anatomic sites assessed, US images acquired using FaceTime are not inferior to those obtained directly with the US machine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea R Levine
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3459 Fifth Avenue, 628 NW, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, United States.
| | - Jessica A Buchner
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
| | - Marc T Zubrow
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States; Program in Trauma, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States; University of Maryland eCare, University of Maryland Medical System, 110 S. Paca St., Suite 5-N-162, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
| | - Haney A Mallemat
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
| | - Alfred Papali
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, 110 S. Paca St., 6th Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
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