Abstract

Point of Care Ultrasound use is becoming an extension of physical examination in a variety of situations and particularly in the Emergency Departments and Intensive care units. Ultrasound is an important tool in the arsenal of Interventional Pulmonologist. Thoracic ultrasound is easily available bedside tool that is more sensitive than conventional x-ray in rapid diagnosis of pleural effusion and pneumothorax. Ultrasound use has become the standard of care for pleural procedures as it minimizes complications. Understanding and recognition of basic pleuropulmonary ultrasound patterns are keys to proper usage and incorporation of this technology in the daily practice of Interventional Pulmonary. Ultrasound is also being increasingly used for percutaneous tracheostomy for optimizing patient selection and minimizing inadvertent vascular injury.