Better with Ultrasound: Detection of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Abstract Ultrasound studies to detect deep vein thrombosis are traditionally performed and interpreted by sonographers and radiologists respectively, but the growth of point-of-care ultrasound is putting this powerful tool in the hands of front-line physicians. Literature from ambulatory patients in the emergency department suggests this tool performs well in the hands of nonconventional users, and it is now being deployed commonly to aid in the management of critically ill patients. This article presents an approach for incorporating these tools into bedside practice, including illustrative figures and narrated video presentations to demonstrate the techniques described.