Ch. 18: Ultrasound-Guided Interventional Techniques

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts from the lecture on ultrasound-guided interventional techniques, aiding in exam preparation.

When did ultrasound begin to assist in interventional procedures?

Since the 1970s.

What are the two types of specially designed transducers used for ultrasound guidance?

A-mode and B-mode transducers.

What is the trend regarding ultrasound in interventional examinations?

The use of ultrasound as the primary imaging modality continues to grow.

What are three factors that contribute to the growth of ultrasound in interventional procedures?

Increased system resolution, new developments in transducer designs, and new technology.

Where can ultrasound be used for invasive procedures?

In the neck, chest, abdomen, retroperitoneum, musculoskeletal, and pelvis.

What are two common procedures that ultrasound can assist with?

Biopsy and drainage of fluid collections.

What is a significant advantage of using ultrasound guidance during procedures?

Continuous real-time visualization of the biopsy needle.

Why might different patient positions be utilized in ultrasound-guided procedures?

To allow safe access to the mass.

What is a disadvantage of using ultrasound guidance?

Not all masses can be visualized.

What is one criterion that could prevent performing ultrasound-guided procedures?

An uncorrectable bleeding disorder.

What does FNA stand for in the context of ultrasound-guided procedures?

Fine Needle Aspiration.

What needle gauge is typically used for Fine Needle Aspiration?

20- to 25-gauge needle.

What device is used in core biopsies for obtaining tissue samples?

An automated, spring-loaded biopsy gun.

What is one use of ultrasound outside of biopsies?

Guiding needle placement to drain fluid from ascites or pleural effusions.

What technique involves not using a needle guide?

Free Hand Technique.

What is one advantage of the Needle Guide Technique?

Faster placement of needle.

What can sonographers do to verify the position of the needle during interventional procedures?

Use Doppler to ensure no vessels are in the needle path.

What does fusion imaging improve in ultrasound-guided procedures?

Resolution and visualization of subtler lesions.

What are some potential post-procedural complications?

Postprocedural pain, hematomas, and infections.

What is a common sign of a hematoma after a biopsy?

Fluid accumulation in the surrounding tissue.

What is the role of the sonographer during an ultrasound-guided procedure?

Locating pathology and offering recommendations for safe needle paths.

How should the needle tip appear on an ultrasound image?

As an echogenic dot.

What can cause deviation of the needle during a procedure?

Tissue and organs between the skin and mass.

What is one benefit of using portable ultrasound units?

They enable use outside traditional areas.

What is a possible future trend for ultrasound in interventional procedures?

Increase in its use due to economic concerns and healthcare reductions.

What should be done if the needle tip is not visible during a procedure?

Move the needle, jiggle the stylet, or angle the transducer.

What tool is sometimes used alongside cytopathology during biopsies?

Cytopathologists review slides for diagnostics.

What position might patients be turned into for better access to a mass?

Decubitus or oblique position.

What is necessary for patient cooperation during biopsies?

Ensuring the patient is calm and still.

What can indicate the presence of a mass when it's not directly visualized?

Indirect signs like displaced vessels or capsule bulges.

What limitation may arise from sonographer inexperience?

Difficulty visualizing or correctly guiding the procedure.

What are some examples of biopies performed with ultrasound guidance?

Liver biopsy, renal biopsy, and thyroid biopsies.

What imaging technologies contribute to improved ultrasound guidance?

Harmonic imaging and compound imaging.

How is comfort provided to the patient during ultrasound procedures?

Presence of the sonologist, sonographer, and nurse throughout the procedure.

What should be documented when observing patients post-procedure?

Indications of pain, bleeding, or vasovagal reactions.

What technique allows for adjusting the needle as needed during a procedure?

Real-time visualization provided by ultrasound.

In addition to safety, what is a major reason for using ultrasound in biopsies?

Real-time imaging for more accurate needle positioning.

For what purpose may catheters be placed using ultrasound guidance?

Draining fluid collections or accessing vascular structures.

What visual aid does the Needle Guide Technique provide?

A predicted needle path displayed on the ultrasound screen.

Why might a physician prefer the free hand technique for certain biopsies?

To enhance flexibility in needle positioning.

What is one challenge mentioned about using fixed angles with needle guides?

Limiting flexibility around vessels or other structures.

What is an essential skill for a sonographer during interventional procedures?

Optimizing imaging and locating vessels.

During a biopsy, what might the sonographer do if the needle deviates from its path?

Adjust the transducer's position lateral to correct needle trajectory.

In what setting can ultrasound guidance be utilized beyond typical environments?

Operating rooms for various types of ablation procedures.

What type of feedback might a sonographer provide to the physician during a procedure?

Gently remind the physician about patient breath-holding.