Researchers here examined their hypothesis that LUSS might be valuable as a tool to non-invasively monitor the evolution of COVID-19 pneumonia at the bedside. They here reported their early experience of LUSS use. In the management of COVID-19 patients with RT-PCR-documented COVID-19 pneumonia, rapid implementation of LUSS monitoring was done. Repeated evaluation of the LUSS was was done at the bedside. Per the graphic description of the course of LUSS during COVID-19 in 10 consecutive patients admitted in their intensive care unit with moderate to severe ARDS between March 15 and 30, there seemed close correlation of LUSS with the disease progression. Successfully extubated patients had decrease in LUSS; it was lower in these patients than at the time of intubation. Patient who died from refractory hypoxemia had inexorably increased LUSS. In addition, a good agreement was observed between CT-scans and LUSS as for the presence of lung consolidations. Per their early experience, researchers suggest LUSS monitoring as capable of accurately reflecting disease progression and support its potential utility for the management of COVID-19 patients with ARDS. It may aid in early ventilator-associated pneumonia diagnosis, mechanical ventilation weaning management, and potentially decrease the necessity for X-ray and CT exams. They identify LUSS evaluation as easy to use and readily available in ICUs throughout the world, and suggest it as possibly a safe, cheap and simple tool to optimize critically ill COVID-19 patients care during the pandemic.
Article: https://www.mdlinx.com/journal-summary/lung-ultrasound-score-to-monitor-covid-19-pneumonia-progression-in-patients-with-ards/3zjEt9OiFm2gRMvAFnyb8O