Anatomical Correlation for Focused Assessment With Sonography in Trauma

Abstract

When learning the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) exam, anatomical orientation can be difficult, especially in the subxiphoid and upper quadrant views. To facilitate understanding in these areas, a novel in-situ cadaver dissection was used to demonstrate anatomy related to the FAST exam. In situ, because the structures remained in normal positions with adjacent organs, layers, and spaces clearly visible from the point of view of the ultrasound probe. These views were then correlated with what was seen on the ultrasound screen. The right upper quadrant and subxiphoid anatomy were viewed in a mirror to match the ultrasound images, and the left upper quadrant was viewed directly from the examiner’s position, also matching the view on the ultrasound screen. The in-situ cadaver dissection was developed as a resource to correlate FAST exam ultrasound images in the upper quadrant and subxiphoid regions with related cadaver anatomy.