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Musolino AM, Tei M, De Rose C, Buonsenso D, Supino MC, Zampogna S, Staiano A, Raponi M, Amendolea A, Colacino V, Gori L, Manganaro A, Ricci R, D'Inzeo V, Grosso S, Villani A, Agostiniani R. Pediatric ultrasound practice in Italy: an exploratory survey. Ital J Pediatr 2024; 50:114. [PMID: 38853266 PMCID: PMC11163714 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-024-01680-3] [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: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this exploratory survey is to describe the current state of US (ultrasound) technique across different pediatric settings nationwide. METHODS A questionnaire was emailed to all members of the Italian Society of Pediatrics, including pediatric residents. The survey was open from December 2021 to March 2022. RESULTS There were 1098 respondents. Seven hundred and seven pediatricians (84.1%) reported any use of US, while 51 (44.3%) residents denied it. The majority of participants (n = 956, 87.1%) reported to have a US machine available within the department, mostly cart-based (n = 516, 66.9%) and provided from 1 to 5 years prior to the survey (n = 330, 42.8%). Lung and neonatal cerebral regions were the most frequently scanned (n = 289, 18.7% and n = 218, 14.1%, respectively). The suspicion of pneumonia or respiratory distress represented the main reasons for performing US in emergency room (n = 390, 78% and n = 330, 66%, respectively). The majority of family pediatricians reported to scan lung and kidney/urinary tract regions (n = 30, 16.9%, and n = 23,12.9%, respectively). Regarding US training, the majority of respondents (n = 358, 34.6%) declared an experience-based education, with a deficient certification enabling the use of US in 71.6% (n = 552) of cases. The most common barriers included the lack of a well-defined training program (n = 627, 57.1%), unavailability of the US machine (n = 196, 17.9%) and legal responsibility concern (n = 175, 15.9%). CONCLUSIONS Despite the growing interest on pediatric US nationally, significant barriers still limit widespread adoption. These obstacles may be addressed through the dissemination of a specific US education plan and providing additional resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Musolino
- Unit of Emergency Pediatrics, Department of Emergency, Admission and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Tei
- Clinical Pediatrics, Department of Mother and Child, Siena University Hospital, Viale Bracci 16, Siena, 53100, Italy.
| | - Cristina De Rose
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Buonsenso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Supino
- Unit of Emergency Pediatrics, Department of Emergency, Admission and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Zampogna
- Department Pediatrics, Hospital of Crotone President of SIMEUP (Italian Society of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Urgency), Crotone, Italy
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Pediatrics, University of Naples "Federico II", President of SIP (Italian Society of Pediatric), Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Raponi
- Management and Diagnostic Innovations and Clinical Pathways Research Area, Medical Directorate, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | | | | | - Laura Gori
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Santa Chiara Hospital, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Manganaro
- Pathology and Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Riccardo Ricci
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Victoria D'Inzeo
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart and Lung Transplant, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Grosso
- Clinical Pediatrics, Department of Mother and Child, Siena University Hospital, Viale Bracci 16, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Alberto Villani
- Unit of General Pediatrics, Department of Emergency, Admission and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Rino Agostiniani
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, San Jacopo Hospital, Via Ciliegiole 97, 51100, Pistoia, Italy
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Scheier E, Shoseyov D. Pleural line slope in point of care ultrasound assessment of paediatric wheeze may reflect respiratory effort. Acta Paediatr 2024; 113:795-801. [PMID: 38088477 DOI: 10.1111/apa.17057] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
AIM Asthma scoring systems rely on physical examination findings. Point of care ultrasound may provide an objective means to document improvement in the work of breathing in paediatric lower airway obstruction. METHODS Thirty children with wheeze on physical examination (cases) and 15 children presenting with abdominal pain (controls) were studied. Using point-of-care ultrasound, m-mode tracing of lung was recorded above the right hemidiaphragm at the midclavicular line. Pleural line slope and excursion were measured before and after treatment. RESULTS Twenty patients had a final slope measurement under 20°, and only three were admitted-one for hypoxia that resolved prior to ascending to the ward and another for poor compliance. Average decrease in pleural line slope after treatment was 43% and average decrease in pleural line excursion was 32%. Of the 10 children admitted, 8 had measurements over 25°. The correlation coefficient between pleural slope and pleural excursion was 0.67. All controls had a horizontal m-mode tracing at the pleural line. CONCLUSION Oscillation of the m-mode line at the pleura is seen in children with lower airway obstruction and is absent in controls. There appears to be a correlation between beta-agonist therapy and decreased pleural line slope and excursion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Scheier
- Pediatric Emergency, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David Shoseyov
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Pediatric Pulmonology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot, Israel
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Ćwiek A, Kołodziej M. Ultrasound-Assisted Lumbar Punctures in Children: An Updated Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Hosp Pediatr 2024; 14:209-215. [PMID: 38356433 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2023-007480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Lumbar puncture (LP) is a common procedure in children, but the rates of unsuccessful and traumatic LPs remain high. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has been proposed as a tool for improvement. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to systematically review current evidence on the usefulness of POCUS assisted LP in children. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, and the CENTRAL were searched up to November 2022. STUDY SELECTION We searched for randomized control trials assessing the effectiveness of POCUS assisted LP in children. DATA EXTRACTION Data were extracted by 2 reviewers independently. RESULTS Seven randomized control trials involving 618 participants were included. Overall, the first attempt POCUS assisted LP was successful in 72% compared with 59.6% in the standard group, regardless of the definition used. The calculated risk difference was 13.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3% to 23%) I2:53%, odds ratio: 2.00 (95% CI: 1.13 to 3.53), I2: 45% and risk ratio:1.21 (95% CI: 1.01 to 1.44) I2:64%. Additionally, fewer traumatic LPs occurred in the US-assisted group, with a risk difference of -12% (95% CI: -0.22 to -0.03), odds ratio: 0.45 (95% CI: 0.26 to 0.78) and risk ratio: 0.53 (95% CI: 0.35 to 0.79). POCUS did not extend the duration of LP procedure with mean difference: -1.11 (95% CI: -2.88 to 0.66). CONCLUSIONS POCUS improved the first attempt success rate and reduced the incidence of traumatic LPs compared with standard LP procedure in children. Therefore, if it is available, POCUS should be used routinely before every LP, especially when performed by less experienced physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Ćwiek
- Department of Paediatrics, The Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Kołodziej
- Department of Paediatrics, The Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Arichai P, Delaney M, Slamowitz A, Rosario R, Gordish-Dressman H, Basu S, Kern J, Maxwell A, Abo A. Pediatric Residency Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training Needs Assessment and Educational Intervention. Cureus 2022; 14:e28696. [PMID: 36204025 PMCID: PMC9527041 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.28696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prior studies showed that point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) training is not commonly offered in pediatric residency. We assessed the need for a pediatric POCUS curriculum by evaluating pediatric trainees’ attitudes toward the use of POCUS and identifying barriers to training. We also aimed to evaluate the impact of a POCUS educational intervention on self-efficacy and behavior. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of pediatric residents in a single large freestanding children’s hospital distributed via an institutional listserv and administered online. The survey included opinion-rating of statements regarding POCUS and barriers to training. We also offered a two-week POCUS course with online modules and hands-on scanning. Participating residents completed pre- and post-course knowledge assessments and follow-up surveys up to 12 months following the course to assess POCUS use and self-report confidence on POCUS indications, acquisition, interpretation, and clinical application. Results Forty-nine respondents were included in the survey representing all three pediatric levels with 16 specialty interest areas. Ninety-six percent of trainees reported that POCUS is an important skill in pediatrics. Ninety-two percent of trainees reported that residency programs should teach residents how to use POCUS. The most important perceived barriers to POCUS training were scheduling availability for POCUS rotations and lack of access to an ultrasound machine. Fourteen participants completed the pre- and post-course knowledge tests, with eight and six participants also completing the six- and 12-month follow-up surveys, respectively. Self-ratings of confidence were significantly improved post-intervention in indications (P = 0.007), image acquisition (P = 0.002), interpretation (P = 0.002), and clinical application (P = 0.004). This confidence improvement was sustained up to 6-12 months (P = 0.004-0.032). Participants also reported higher categorical POCUS use after course completion (P = 0.031). Conclusions Pediatric trainees perceive POCUS as an important skill, hold favorable opinions towards the use of POCUS, and support POCUS training within a pediatric residency. A POCUS course can improve resident POCUS knowledge, instill confidence, and motivate higher POCUS use. Further study is needed to evaluate POCUS applications in pediatric medicine to develop a standardized POCUS curriculum and establish a training guideline for pediatric residency.
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Solomon L, Emma M, Gibbons LM, Kusulas MP. Current risk landscape of point-of-care ultrasound in pediatric emergency medicine in medical malpractice litigation. Am J Emerg Med 2022; 58:16-21. [PMID: 35623178 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.05.010] [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: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) is expanding as a diagnostic tool in pediatric emergency medicine. Pediatricians are apprehensive to take on the risk of malpractice from incorrect interpretation of PoCUS imaging, therefore limiting its use. Although current studies provide reassurance to this concern, none look directly at the risk for pediatric emergency medicine physicians. Our study aims to evaluate the current medicolegal risk landscape posed by PoCUS in pediatric emergency medicine. METHODS A search of case law was performed utilizing the LexisNexis caselaw database for the period of January 2011 through December 2021. Initial search results were reviewed by the attorney co-authors for relevance to medical malpractice surrounding PoCUS. The remaining cases were reviewed by physician co-authors to ensure their relevance to both ultrasound and the acute care setting. Identified cases were then classified into categories as per the reason for the claim. RESULTS No cases of malpractice litigation were identified that directly related to PoCUS. Ten cases of ultrasound in the acute care setting were identified, 7 of which were in pediatric patients. The majority of these cases related to appendicitis or testicular torsion. Of these 10 cases, 2 cases claimed failure to consider the ultimate diagnosis, but ultrasound would have been an appropriate study had the diagnosis been considered. Of the 8 remaining cases, 6 were based on failure to perform or delay performing ultrasound, 1 claimed that improper ultrasound study was initially performed, and 1 case was based on an improper diagnosis made by ultrasound. DISCUSSION PoCUS does not appear to pose a significant risk of malpractice litigation in pediatric emergency medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Solomon
- Department of Pediatrics, Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States of America.
| | - Maggie Emma
- Risk Management, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY, United States of America
| | - Lisa M Gibbons
- Claims Management, Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY, United States of America
| | - Matthew P Kusulas
- Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States of America
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Meggitt A, Way DP, Iyer MS, Mahan JD, Gold D. Residents' Perspective on Need for Point-of-Care Ultrasound Education During Pediatric Residency. Hosp Pediatr 2022; 12:607-617. [PMID: 35510494 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-006444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many medical disciplines incorporate point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) into their practice. Despite well-defined applications, POCUS has not been widely adopted in pediatrics and is not commonly taught during residency. Our objective was to profile the current state of POCUS education in pediatric residency training from the resident perspective. METHODS We surveyed pediatric trainees about their POCUS education, general opinions about POCUS, and perceived barriers to POCUS training in residency. We distributed the survey to a random sample of Ohio pediatric residents, stratified by program size and training level. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize responses. RESULTS We sampled 66.4% of the population (371 of 559) of Ohio pediatric residents and achieved a response rate of 59.3%. Only 15% of respondents received POCUS training during residency, with 85% having never performed a POCUS scan. Most (86%) desired POCUS education and 67% believed it should be required during residency. Residents felt that POCUS would be useful for procedural guidance (95%), clinical diagnosis (94%), and patient safety (74%). Most residents (61%) believed POCUS education would benefit their careers, particularly those planning on subspecialization. Barriers to POCUS education included lack of an established curriculum (75%), competing educational priorities (58%), and a shortage of qualified instructors (52%). CONCLUSIONS Although Ohio pediatric residents do not receive formal POCUS education in residency, they desire such training and believe it would benefit their future practice. Consensus on scope of practice, development of a standardized curriculum, and increased faculty training in POCUS may help address this educational gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Meggitt
- University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver, Colorado
| | - David P Way
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Maya S Iyer
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - John D Mahan
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Delia Gold
- Department of Pediatrics, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
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McGinness A, Lin-Martore M, Addo N, Shaahinfar A. The unmet demand for point-of-care ultrasound among general pediatricians: a cross-sectional survey. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:7. [PMID: 34980087 PMCID: PMC8722332 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-03072-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a noninvasive bedside tool with many pediatric applications but is not currently a formal part of pediatric training and practice. Formal surveys of general pediatricians regarding POCUS training are lacking. We aimed to quantify the baseline ultrasound experience and training needs of general pediatricians and pediatric residents across different practice settings. METHODS In 2020, we sent an online survey to 485 current faculty, residents, and graduates from an urban pediatric academic medical center in Northern California. Pediatric subspecialists were excluded. Survey questions about baseline experience, comfort, and perceived usefulness of 20 common POCUS applications were developed by two POCUS experts using existing literature. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare residents versus attendings and to compare attendings practicing in inpatient versus outpatient versus mixed settings. RESULTS Response rate was 20% (98/485). Compared to attendings (n = 73), residents (n = 25) endorsed more exposure to POCUS in medical school (32% vs 5%, p = 0.003) and residency (12% vs 5%, p = 0.003). Respondents endorsed low comfort with POCUS (mean 1.3 out of 5 on Likert scale). Of 20 procedural and diagnostic applications, respondents identified abscess drainage, bladder catheterization, soft tissue, neck, advanced abdominal, and constipation as most useful. Overall, 50% of pediatricians (and 70% of pediatric residents) responded that there were opportunities to use POCUS multiple times a week or more in their clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS There is an unmet demand for POCUS training among general pediatricians and trainees in our study. Although the majority of respondents were not POCUS users, our results could guide future efforts to study the role of POCUS in general pediatrics and develop pediatric curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anelah McGinness
- Department of Graduate Medical Education, PGY-3 resident, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, 747 52nd Street, Suite 245, Oakland, CA 94609 USA
| | - Margaret Lin-Martore
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, 5150 16th St, Box 0632, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Newton Addo
- Departments of Medicine and Emergency Medicine, 1001 Potrero Ave, Box 1220, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Ashkon Shaahinfar
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, University of California San Francisco, 747 52nd Street, ED Trailer 3, Oakland, CA 94609 USA
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Good RJ, O'Hara KL, Ziniel SI, Orsborn J, Cheetham A, Rosenberg A. Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training in Pediatric Residency: A National Needs Assessment. Hosp Pediatr 2021; 11:1246-1252. [PMID: 34625490 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-006060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES As point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) evolves into a standard tool for the care of children, pediatric residency programs need to develop POCUS training programs. Few POCUS training resources exist for pediatric residents, and little is known about POCUS training in pediatric residencies. We aim to describe pediatric residency leadership perspectives regarding the value of POCUS and to elucidate the current state of POCUS training in pediatric residency programs. METHODS A group of pediatric educators and POCUS experts developed a novel survey followed by cognitive interviews to establish response-process validity. The survey was administered electronically to pediatric residency associate program directors between December 2019 and April 2020. Program characteristics, including region, setting, and size, were used to perform poststratification for analyses. We performed comparative analyses using program and respondent characteristics. RESULTS We achieved a 30% (58 of 196) survey response rate. Although only a minority of respondents (26%) used POCUS in clinical practice, a majority (56%) indicated that all pediatric residents should be trained in POCUS. A majority of respondents also considered 8 of 10 POCUS applications important for pediatric residents. Only 37% of programs reported any POCUS training for residents, primarily informal bedside education. Most respondents (94%) cited a lack of qualified instructors as a barrier to POCUS training. CONCLUSIONS Most pediatric residency programs do not provide residents with POCUS training despite its perceived value and importance. Numerous POCUS applications are considered important for pediatric residents to learn. Future curricular and faculty development efforts should address the lack of qualified POCUS instructors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Good
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kimberly L O'Hara
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Sonja I Ziniel
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jonathan Orsborn
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Alexandra Cheetham
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Adam Rosenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
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Abstract
Cardiac point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) provides real-time views of the heart to answer specific questions in a timely manner. This is a valuable tool for managing pediatric patients, from those with congenital heart disease to those who are critically ill. The main echocardiographic findings of pericardial tamponade consist of a pericardial effusion, diastolic right ventricular collapse, systolic right atrial collapse, and a plethoric inferior vena cava with minimal respiratory variation. The main echocardiographic findings of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy consist of increased wall thickness (concentric or eccentric), systolic anterior motion of the anterior mitral leaflet, and a dynamic sub-aortic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Additional uses of cardiac POCUS include assessment of dilated cardiomyopathy and the detection of pediatric congenital heart disease, including detection of a patent ductus arteriosus. The use of POCUS in the pediatric population is supported by societal position statements and is expected to develop further with increasingly robust education and training. [Pediatr Ann. 2021;50(10):e424-e431.].
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Sansone F, Attanasi M, Di Filippo P, Sferrazza Papa GF, Di Pillo S, Chiarelli F. Usefulness of Lung Ultrasound in Paediatric Respiratory Diseases. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:1783. [PMID: 34679481 PMCID: PMC8534634 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory infection diseases are among the major causes of morbidity and mortality in children. Diagnosis is focused on clinical presentation, yet signs and symptoms are not specific and there is a need for new non-radiating diagnostic tools. Among these, lung ultrasound (LUS) has recently been included in point-of-care protocols showing interesting results. In comparison to other imaging techniques, such as chest X-ray and computed tomography, ultrasonography does not use ionizing radiations. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for clinical follow-up of paediatric patients. LUS requires only 5-10 min and allows physicians to make quick decisions about the patient's management. Nowadays, LUS has become an early diagnostic tool to detect pneumonia during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this narrative review, we show the most recent scientific literature about advantages and limits of LUS performance in children. Furthermore, we discuss the major paediatric indications separately, with a paragraph fully dedicated to COVID-19. Finally, we mention potential future perspectives about LUS application in paediatric respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sansone
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.S.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.S.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.S.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Francesco Sferrazza Papa
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20146 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura del Policlinico, 20144 Milan, Italy
| | - Sabrina Di Pillo
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.S.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.D.P.)
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Paediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Paediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.S.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.D.P.)
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Gutierrez P, Berkowitz T, Shah L, Cohen SG. Taking the Pulse of POCUS: The State of Point-of-Care Ultrasound at a Pediatric Tertiary Care Hospital. POCUS JOURNAL 2021; 6:80-87. [PMID: 36895674 PMCID: PMC9979874 DOI: 10.24908/pocus.v6i2.14781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We aim to quantify and categorize point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) usage by pediatric practitioners and trainees at our tertiary care center, and assess the degree of interest from pediatric residents, fellows, and program leaders for integrating POCUS into their training. Data was collected via online survey, evaluating the current use of POCUS in clinical decision making, desire for further formal training, and opinions on the importance of POCUS to future clinical practice. In total, 14 program directors/assistant program directors (PD/APDs) representing 10 of 15 training programs, 30 of 95 fellows representing 9 of 15 fellowships, and 32 of 82 residents responded. From PD/APDs, only 2 of the programs reported active use POCUS for clinical decision making, but 13 of the fellows and 9 residents reported doing so. In regard to desire for a formal POCUS program, 30.8% of PD/APDs, 43.8% of fellows without current curricula, and 87.5% of residents were interested in participating in such a program. When considering specialty, some non-acute care-based PD/APDs and fellows at our institution felt that POCUS was important to future practice. Pediatric subspecialty PD/APDs and their fellows had divergent outlooks on the importance of POCUS in future practice. Finally, an overwhelming majority of residents at our institution expressed a desire to learn, and half believing it will be important to future practice. Based on the degree of interest, medicolegal considerations, and trajectory of patient care, pediatric residency and fellowship programs should strongly consider integrating POCUS education into their curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Gutierrez
- Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta, GA.,Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Atlanta, GA
| | - Tal Berkowitz
- Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta, GA.,Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Atlanta, GA
| | - Lekha Shah
- Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta, GA.,Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Atlanta, GA
| | - Stephanie G Cohen
- Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta, GA.,Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Atlanta, GA
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