Ecografía clínica (POCUS) en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca

Desde el diagnóstico al egreso

Abstract

The approach to heart failure patients has radically changed since Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) introduction. Lung and cardiac ultrasound performed by the clinician in front of the patient, allows to accurately diagnose interstitial fluid in this set of individuals. Moreover, ultrasound enables treating physician to identify and quantify lung and systemic venous congestion, which is the hallmark of heart failure clinical presentation. Using POCUS, clinician may detect systolic dysfunction, gross valvulopathies, and differentials such as pulmonary embolism, pericardial effusion among others. It is an ideal tool in locations where echocardiography is not available immediately with evidence of impact in prognosis of patients. Ultrasound permits congestion serial evaluation and identifies the best moment for a safe discharge. The clinician managing heart failure must be familiar and adequately trained to be proficient in the application of this technology as an extension of physical exam