Thoracic sonography for diagnosis and intervention

Many physicians believe that ultrasound has limited usefulness in chest disease. Our clinical experiences and a review of the literature in preparation for this monograph have convinced us that sonography can be a very useful and versatile tool for thoracic diagnosis and intervention. Although there are some limitations caused by interposed ribs and air-containing lung, almost all of the compartments of the chest can be evaluated with ultrasound, which gives unique and clinically useful information. Ultrasound guidance for biopsy and drainage does take some time to learn, but we feel that the effort is very worthwhile. The same advantages ultrasound enjoys for other body regions make it a modality that will see increased use in the chest as well. We hope that this monograph will stimulate our colleagues to explore and expand upon the techniques described.