[Whole-body ultrasound in the ICU. A visual approach to the critically ill]

Sonography is a non invasive method allowing prompt diagnosis at the bedside, especially when sophisticated diagnostic tools are unavailable, as in the critical care setting. In particular, the lung, a vital organ, is fully accessible, and the signs are simple and standardized. Accurate diagnosis is possible in extreme emergencies, as in patients with pleural effusion, alveolar consolidation, interstitial syndrome or pneumothorax. The clinical relevance of these diagnoses, and especially the interstitial syndrome, is discussed. Sonography also allows cost savings and avoids unnecessary irradiation.