POCUS Note

POCUS Note: Explained this is point of care ultrasound and not formal ultrasound, which might be required if felt clinically appropriate. Images stored on SonoSite X-Port. Clinical Indication: The patient presented to the emergency department with acute onset dyspnoea, chest pain, and hypotension, raising suspicion for pulmonary embolism or cardiac tamponade. Echocardiography: LV: Normal left ventricular size and function, with an estimated ejection fraction of 55-60%. RV: Moderately dilated right ventricle with reduced systolic function, and an RV to LV ratio of 1.2:1. MV: Mild mitral regurgitation, otherwise normal morphology and mobility. TV: Moderate tricuspid regurgitation, with normal morphology and good mobility. AV: Normal aortic valve morphology, excursion, and no evidence of regurgitation or stenosis. Pericardium: Small circumferential pericardial effusion, approximately 0.5 cm, with no signs of cardiac tamponade. IVC: IVC diameter 2.5 cm, with less than 20% respiratory variation, indicating elevated right atrial pressure. Haemodynamics: LVOT VTI 18 cm, calculated stroke volume 55 mL, and cardiac output 3.8 L/min. Lung Ultrasound: Bilateral B-lines noted in the lower lung fields, consistent with pulmonary oedema. No pleural effusions or consolidations observed. Abdominal Ultrasound: No free fluid detected in the abdomen. Liver and kidneys appear unremarkable. Gallbladder is anechoic with no stones. Clinical Impression: POCUS findings suggest significant right ventricular strain and mild pulmonary oedema, consistent with the clinical picture of acute cardiorespiratory compromise. The small pericardial effusion is noted but does not appear to be haemodynamically significant at this time. Recommendations: Initiate diuresis for pulmonary oedema. Consider further investigations such as CT pulmonary angiogram to rule out pulmonary embolism. Cardiology consultation for further management of right ventricular dysfunction. Repeat echocardiogram in 24 hours to monitor effusion size and RV function. Dr. Sarah Jenkins Emergency Medicine Registrar MBBS, MRCEM