Year-end Sale % OFF 
Abstract
BackgroundUltrasound-guided paracentesis is commonly performed in the emergency department (ED) setting. Injury to the inferior epigastric artery (IEA) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication of paracentesis. Use of anatomic landmarks has been recommended to avoid this structure. If feasible, sonographic localization of the IEA before ultrasound-guided paracentesis may provide the operator with anatomic mapping of this vascular structure. Case reportsWe present 5 cases demonstrating the feasibility of identifying the IEA in ED patients with ascites. Why should an emergency physician be aware of this? Sonographic localization of the IEA before ultrasound-guided paracentesis may provide a more reliable means of avoiding iatrogenic injury to this vessel. Further study is warranted to determine whether routine IEA visualization before paracentesis results in a decreased complication rate.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
