Pneumothorax Identified by a Remote Physician Using Paramedic-obtained Tele-ultrasound: Case Report

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Point-of-Care Ultrasound
• Telehealth

Background:

• Community paramedicine is an evolving field integrating new technologies.
• Telemedicine and ultrasound applications in this setting are novel, with limited supporting data.
• Evidence for morbidity and mortality benefits of these technologies in community paramedicine is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight a unique case of diagnosing a common medical emergency using tele-ultrasound in community paramedicine.
• To demonstrate the potential of point-of-care ultrasound and telehealth in improving patient outcomes.
• To showcase a successful application of advanced diagnostic tools by community paramedics.

Main Methods:

• A trained community paramedic performed lung point-of-care ultrasound during a home visit.
• Real-time interpretation of ultrasound images was conducted via telehealth by an emergency physician.
• Diagnosis of pneumothorax was confirmed by chest radiography in the emergency department.

Main Results:

• The tele-ultrasound identified a pneumothorax in an 86-year-old male patient.
• The patient received timely diagnosis and treatment, including chest tube placement.
• The patient was discharged five days later, having returned to his baseline condition.

Conclusions:

• This case illustrates a valuable application of telemedicine and ultrasound in community paramedicine.
• Expanding the use of paramedic tele-ultrasound may enhance diagnostic capabilities and patient care.
• Further research is warranted to support the broader implementation of these technologies.