Image registration assists novice operators in ultrasound assessment of abdominal trauma

Citation:

Vosburgh KG, Stoll J, Noble V, Pohl K, San José Estepar R, Takacs B. Image registration assists novice operators in ultrasound assessment of abdominal trauma. Stud Health Technol Inform 2008;132:532-7.

Date Published:

2008

Abstract:

Transcutaneous ultrasound imaging may be used to detect abdominal hemorrhage in the field setting. The Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) examination was developed to characterize blunt abdominal trauma and has been shown to be effective for assessing penetrating trauma as well. However, it is unlikely that a minimally trained operator could perform a diagnostic examination. In our system, the operator is be supported by real-time 3D volume displays. The operator will be directed through the examination by prompts from a computer system or outside expert, potentially with knowledge of the anatomy of the injured patient. The key elements of the tele-operated FAST exam capability have been demonstrated; the exam is performed with real-time guidance from anatomic images registered to the body. It appears likely that Image Registration will assist hemorrhage detection at the point of injury or in the initial evaluation by a trauma response team.