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.