Abstract
Objective: This study aims to investigate the application and effectiveness of eFAST (extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) in cases of blunt polytrauma at the University Hospital of Maringá (HUM), evaluating its diagnostic capacity and relationship with surgical outcomes. Theoretical Framework: Traumatic injuries are among the leading causes of premature morbidity and mortality in young adults, with increasing incidence. Closed abdominal and thoracic trauma pose challenges for surgeons, and eFAST is widely used to identify injuries such as pneumothorax, pericardial effusions, and free intra-abdominal fluid. Early detection of these findings aids in directing additional diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Method: This is an observational and retrospective study analyzing medical records of patients with blunt abdominal and thoracic trauma. Results and Discussion: eFAST demonstrated high specificity (92.1%) but moderate sensitivity (50%), indicating a significant rate of false negatives. While useful for initial screening, it was complemented by computed tomography for diagnostic confirmation. Research Implications: This research promotes the adoption of new technologies in the management of polytrauma, validating the use of ultrasound in our hospital. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the literature by describing the epidemiological use of eFAST, highlighting its importance. Its application in the Brazilian context encourages other health services to adopt this technique, potentially improving outcomes for polytraumatized patients.
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