title: [Ultrasound in chest disease].
abstract: In the past few years transthoracic ultrasound has been recognized as an important tool for chest physicians. At present, ultrasound devices are practical, portable, easy to use and reliable, which makes them suited for diagnostic investigations as well as for therapeutic procedures guidance. Basic ultrasound technical expertise is required to assess pleural effusions and perform ultrasound -guided thoracentesis. More complex procedures can be done with specific training and include assistance to chest drain insertion and identification with potential biopsy of thoracic lesions. The authors aim to review, in a practical approach, the technique and recent developments in this field. Clinical cases are presented in order to illustrate and guide the beginner in chest ultrasound.
authors.affiliation: Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal. antonio.bugalho@netcabo.pt
authors.forename: António
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bugalho
authors.forename: Júlio
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Semedo
authors.forename: João
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Alpendre
authors.forename: José
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Cepeda Ribeiro
authors.forename: Luís
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Carreiro
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D013896:Thoracic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014463:Ultrasonography