Cardiac Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Critical Care: Evolution, Current State, and Future Prospects

Excerpt

As of 2024, Cardiac Point-of-Care Ultrasonography (CPOCUS) has become an essential tool in intensive care units around the world. Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the quality of images obtained, streamlined the processing through improved software, and facilitated more efficient storage and sharing solutions. These improvements have collectively enhanced the diagnostic efficiency for critical illness. Furthermore, innovative techniques such as Venous Excess Ultrasound Score (VEXUS) [1], an emerging tool for volume assessment, are being developed and tested to address complex clinical questions where reliable tests are currently lacking. Perhaps the most significant advancement in CPOCUS over the past decade has been the increased emphasis on education, equipping a new generation of clinicians with proficiency in this critical technology. For example, the integration of CPOCUS into medical school, residency, and fellowship curriculums marks a significant shift from specialized technicians acquiring imaging and physician specialists providing the interpretation. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of its value in diverse clinical settings, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient care across multiple disciplines. It also enables real-time diagnosis and implementation of specific therapies which are often critical in intensive care units. Despite the transformative potential of CPOCUS, its integration into clinical practice has been gradual, with some clinicians still favoring traditional invasive monitoring methods. Addressing the barriers to adoption, quality control and credentialing can further unlock the benefits of this non-invasive technology. …