Longitudinal spine ultrasound with linear array probe Also known as a “spinal tap,” a lumbar puncture is used to diagnose life-threatening diseases, administer medications, and measure intracranial pressure. An estimated 360,000 of these procedures are performed annually in the U.S.…
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A central venous catheter (CVC), also called a central line, is similar to an intravenous line but is more often used for critically ill patients who require longer treatments. It is a common bedside procedure performed using sterilize equipment. It…
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Pericardiocentesis Pericardiocentesis or a pericardial tap is a life-saving invasive medical procedure that physicians perform to eliminate a pericardial effusion, built-up fluid in the pericardium or the pericardial sac. This double-walled fibrous sac protects the heart and big vessels while…
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Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a revolutionary diagnostic method that helps enhance physical examination at the point of care, that is, the patient’s bedside. Clinicians can use this tool to quickly diagnose medical conditions and guide treatment or bedside procedures, including…
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Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the medical industry and provided physicians with the ability to visualize internal tissue and organs in real time. Advancements and changing trends in medical technology have also seen smaller and more affordable ultrasound machines cropping up…
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Ultrasound-guided paracentesis is a common hospital procedure that medical professionals perform to drain ascites in patients with advanced cirrhosis. It has a low bleeding risk and is used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Although paracentesis is generally a safe procedure,…
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Lumbar punctures (LPs) are a common medical procedure that is used to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to diagnose and manage neurological illnesses. Here, we delve into the results of a new study on the safety of LPs for patients undergoing…
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Conditions like congestive heart failure, pneumonia, cancer, and lupus can cause excess fluid to accumulate in the pleural space or area between the lungs and chest wall. To aspirate fluid from a pleural effusion, a medical procedure known as thoracentesis…
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Intraosseous lines are commonly associated with decreased return of spontaneous circulation or ROSC rates compared to peripheral IV access. Intraosseous lines have also been linked to decreased survival after out-of-hospital and in-hospital cases of cardiac arrest in comparison to IV…
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Traditionally, traumatic hemothorax treatment called for the insertion of a 36-French (36F) to 40F large-bore chest tube (CT). In this article, we’ll delve into a study that shows how 14F percutaneous catheters (P-CATs or PCs) or pigtail catheters have equal…
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While vasopressors are typically administered through a central venous catheter (CVC), peripheral intravenous (PIV) administration is becoming more common in clinical practice. The safety of this administration method is now well-established and is a good alternative to CVC placement for…
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Cirrhosis refers to a chronic liver disease that causes the liver’s normal architecture to change. It leads to scarring, the formation of fibrous tissue, and fluid (ascites) in the abdomen. Some cases may require invasive hospital procedures. Ascites is cirrhosis’…
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A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line refers to a type of central line that is used for long-term vascular access in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the American Board of Internal Medicine’s (ABIM) Choosing Wisely campaign recommends…
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