ABSTRACT
Introduction: Ultrasound (US) has become a more reliable method for lung parenchyma assessment. Precise detecting localization and effective monitoring treatment is crucial in respiratory medicine patients. The aim was to evaluate the accuracy of the US to detect and monitor lung lesions in compliance with lung segmental anatomy in post-COVID patients with associated comorbid respiratory conditions. Materials: We did an evaluation of 30 consecutive patients (25-74?years), who suffered from various chronic respiratory conditions and underwent COVID-19 during the last 3 months. All patients underwent first line lung ultrasound followed by CT and bronchoscopy where needed. Result(s): US can detect correctly in 28/30 cases to verify lesion and segmental localization as confirmed on CT and/or endoscopy. The US was effective to monitor treatment in 24/30 cases without need for follow up CT, including 5 patients after bronchoscopic lavage. Various specific conditions were detected and monitored on US: segmental atelectasis, pneumonia (22 cases);right middle lobe atelectasis (3);bronchiectatic disease (3);lung cirrhosis, post tuberculosis changes (2). Lung compression / atelectasis due to severe scoliosis and thoracic deformities detected in 2 patients. In some cases US was more effective vs CT due to possibility of real time ventilation observation, detecting tissue movement;dorsal areas ventilation was underdetected on CT due to patients'position. Conclusion(s): US can be used for detecting peripheral lung lesions, precise determination of segmental localization, is important for early diagnosis and monitoring.