Ultrasound for blunt abdominal trauma: Is it free fluid?

The use of sonography for evaluating blunt abdominal trauma is gaining popularity in the United States. Radiologists may begin to play a vital role in the initial evaluation of the critically injured patient. With the rapid identification of free intraperitoneal fluid, unstable patients may be sent to the operating room without delay. Effective utilization of trauma sonography requires use of a targeted examination. Understanding the anatomic relationships of the various peritoneal reflections and awareness of the potential pitfalls that may be encountered will minimize examination time while permitting accurate interpretation.