Slovenská chirurgia 4/2013

Benefit of ultrasonography in diagnostics and therapy of acute empyema of the chest

This study´s main purpose is to show the use of ultrasonographic examination in diagnosis of acute pleural empyema. This diagnostic method allows us to determine the borders, structure and localisation of an empyema cavity, to mark the place of subsequent pleural punction or drainage, to determine free liquid or other formations in the pleural cavity. The combination of X-ray and other radiological methods and Ultrasonography increases the effectiveness of the diagnostic process and therapy and helps us to decrease the radiation load on patients.

Keywords: acute empyema of the chest, diagnostics, ultrasonography.