Abstract
BACKGROUND: The clinical value of ultrasound findings of free fluid in non-traumatic acute abdomen evaluation is under scrutiny. This study aimed to evaluate whether ultrasound findings of free fluid can be used to assess the effusion volume in a non-traumatic acute abdomen by comparing the ultrasound-estimated effusion volume with the effusion volume determined at surgery and evaluating ultrasound-guided drainage tube placement. METHODS: This prospective case series study enrolled patients with non-traumatic acute abdomen from the Hospital between January 2021 and September 2021. The volumes of pelvic and peritoneal effusion, as estimated by ultrasound findings of free fluid, were compared with the actual volumes observed during subsequent surgery. RESULTS: Eighty-six patients underwent surgery within 7 h after ultrasound findings of free fluid. The effusion volume matching rates were 62.5%, 65.2%, 22.2%, and 3.0% for pelvic and peritoneal effusion within 0-2, 2-4, 4-6, and 6-7 h after ultrasound findings of free fluid. Successful abdominocentesis was achieved in all patients. Ultrasound findings of free fluid could effectively guide drainage tube placement and monitor the condition of 68 patients. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that ultrasound findings of free fluid may be an option for assessing non-traumatic acute abdomen and to guide surgical drain placement in emergency departments. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: not applicable.