Pocket ultrasound for ascites and paracentesis assessment

The presence of ascites may be suggestive of multiple pathologies. Physical examination cannot always detect it, particularly when the amount of fluid is low or if it coexists with obesity. Its early detection has important diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic implications. This is why ultrasound has become essential for its detection. Moreover, its usefulness in performing guided procedures has been demonstrated on multiple occasions and it has become a tool of daily use in hospital services. With technological improvement, new portable ultrasounds have been developed, so small and light that they fit in the palm of the hand: pocket ultrasounds. This paper discusses their usefulness as an adjunct to physical examination for the detection of ascites, as well as for the performance of guided paracentesis.