Knowledge of point-of-care ultrasound and management of deep vein thrombosis patient in resource limited setup: A case report.

INTRODUCTION

and importance: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), frequently encountered in an emergency setting, if not identified and managed early, leads to pulmonary embolism that may be life threatening to the patient. The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can be used as an effective and time saving tool for diagnosis of such life threatening conditions.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of a 53 years old male who presented to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of swelling and pain in the left lower limb for one week and redness of overlying skin for the same duration. Following a point-of-care ultrasound scan, a diagnosis of DVT was made. The condition was quickly identified and promptly treated preventing possible complications.

DISCUSSION

Use of point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose DVT has been shown to decrease the need for comprehensive scans, decrease time to diagnosis and length of stay at the emergency department. To improve medical care by increasing early detection, lowering costs, and improving overall patient care, more training of emergency physicians in ultrasound technique and standardized use of ultrasound to screen for DVT in the ED is required.

CONCLUSION

This case report highlights how, despite the unavailability of sophisticated diagnostic procedures, a skill of using POCUS can prove to be lifesaving in a resource-limited setting.