1.3 Lung Ultrasound point of care
Lung Ultrasound (LUS) was performed to assess optimal lung auscultation
landmarks in children with different degrees of scoliosis and chest
asymmetry and to detect areas of atelectasis, air trapping, pleural
effusion, lung consolidations and other anomalies.
The ultrasound machine ESAOTE MyLab ™ 40, complies with the Medical
Device Directive (MDD) 93 \ 42 \ EEC and
subsequent amendments. In accordance with this directive, Esaote has
classified it as Class IIa devices. The preset used was small parts.
Linear probe (12 - 6 MHz) was used in preschool children. In older
children, we used a curved probe (8 - 5 MHz). The focus was always
positioned at the level of the pleural line. Images and clips were
stored and archived. The ultrasound scans were performed by
pediatricians and pediatric residents with certifications and / or with
an experience of at least 3 years of practice with LUS.
The scans were made by investigating the anterior, lateral and posterior
regions of the bilaterally thorax and placing the probe transversely and
longitudinally along the lines considered traditional ultrasound
findings: the parasternal line, the axillary line and the paravertebral
line so as to fully explore the chest wall according to a methodical
scheme previously described [11]. To investigate the anterior and
lateral lung fields, patients were positioned, according to age, in a
seated or supine position. The posterior lung fields have been explored
in lateral decubitus and in sitting position.