Cureus. 2024 Sep 30;16(9):e70487. doi: 10.7759/cureus.70487. eCollection 2024 Sep.
ABSTRACT
Ultrasound (US) has become a useful, bedside, noninvasive imaging technique in diagnosing pulmonary diseases, particularly in Neonatology, due to its non-invasive nature, lack of ionizing radiation, and high-quality imaging. This study explores current methodologies, applications, and benefits of thoracic US in neonatal care, highlighting its application in assessing pleural morphology, pulmonary consolidations, and diaphragmatic function. Key ultrasound findings, such as A-lines, B-lines, and the pleural sliding sign, are instrumental in diagnosing various lung conditions, including pneumothorax and respiratory distress syndrome. The present review emphasizes the growing importance of lung ultrasound (LUS) in predicting neonatal intensive care needs, reducing reliance on X-rays, and improving the early diagnosis of conditions like transient tachypnea of the newborn. The use of ultrasound scoring systems enhances diagnostic accuracy, making thoracic ultrasound a valuable addition to neonatal care protocols for real-time, radiation-free assessment from birth.
PMID:39479113 | PMC:PMC11522945 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.70487
