Predictive Value of Point-of-Care, Limited Ultrasonography for Trauma Using the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma Scanning Technique with a Hemoperitoneum Score in Assessing the Need for Operative Care in Torso Trauma Patients

Abstract

Study Objectives: The reported sensitivity of the FAST exam for abdominal trauma ranges from 81 to 100%; depending on the outcome measure employed, i.e. free fluid, organ injury, or need for operative care. The primary objective was to assess, whether point-of-care, limited ultrasonography (PLUS) for trauma, using the FAST scanning technique with a previously described hemoperitoneum score, accurately predicted need for operative care (OR) in torso trauma patients. Secondarily, the contribution of CT results for assessing OR requirements was assessed.