Conclusions

Thoracic ultrasound is a well-established diagnostic tool for the chest physician. It is quick, portable, and available providing real-time dynamic imaging and does not expose patients to ionizing radiation. It has a particular advantage to be a rapid bedside test. The investigation of chest wall abnormality, pleural effusion, and lung consolidation remains the major indications. The role played by CUS in improving patient safety does not end when the procedure begins. Other than providing the ability to allow

real-time guidance of any pleural intervention, CUS also offers the operator an opportunity to identify any iatrogenic complications as early as possible.

Furthermore, it allows morphological and dynamic study of each hemidiaphragms in case of raised hemidiaphragm, dyspnea following a surgical procedure (thoracic or abdominal), or road accident trauma and many other diseases.

Sonography is not a complicated technique to put in place, but the appropriate knowledge and the identifcation of basic ultrasound signs are fundamental to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

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