Imaging features of lung ultrasound in patients undergoing lung transplantation / 中华超声影像学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the postoperative imaging features of lung ultrasound on patients undergoing lung transplantation ,and to provide the evidence for diagnosis and therapy . Methods Between October 2016 and March 2017 ,51 patients undergoing lung transplantation ( unilateral37 ,bilateral14 ) admitted to the ICU in Wuxi People′s Hospital were examined by bedside lung ultrasound ,and imaging features were analyzed . Results The main features on ultrasound of 51 patients undergoing lung transplantation were①PneumothoraxThe A-line arising at the pleural line was shown in all of 51 patients , mainly on anterolateral parts of the chest wall initially ,then fade away towards anterosuperior parts over time . ② HydrothoraxAn anechoic fluid collection was detected ( up to 50 mm in width ) ,and became narrow over time in most patients . A mass of floccules or progressive growth of pleural effusion indicated the need for emergency surgery ,and were confirmed bleeding after surgery . ③Subcutaneous emphysemaThe E-line was detected mainly in anterior and lateral parts around the surgical incision of postoperative patients ,and gradually fade away over time . ④Pulmonary edemaOn the first postoperative day ,multiple B-lines were shown in 49 cases ,lung consolidation in 36 cases ( mainly in the inferior and inferoposterior parts) ,lung consolidation sonographic air bronchogram in 12 cases . Then the area of consolidation and B-lines reduced ,the air bronchogram sign became more prevalent ,and the shred sign appeared on the border of consolidation over time . Conclusions The imaging features of lung ultrasound provides clinic diagnostic and therapeutic value for postoperative patients undergoing lung transplantation .