Gastric UltraSound

PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

1. SCANNING TECHNIQUE


1. Babies are often uncooperative/crying; it may be difficult to ascertain perfect images.

2. In younger/smaller patients (< 30 kg) a high-frequency linear transducer provides the best images.
  • The figure below shows the empty antrum of children (RLD) using a high-frequency transducer


3. In older/bigger children, a low-frequency curvilinear transducer may be required

  • An 11-year-old patient (23.2kg, 1.28 mL/kg of fluid). The antrum appears empty in supine position and distended with hypoechoic content in the right lateral decubitus (RLD), consistent with a grade 1. (Picture below)

Legend: Ao: aorta A: antrum; C: colon; L: liver; P: pancreas; Sma: superior mesenteric artery; Yellow arrows: antrum.

Legend: Ao: aorta A: antrum; C: colon; L: liver; P: pancreas; Sma: superior mesenteric artery; Yellow arrows: antrum


2. GASTRIC VOLUME ASSESSMENT


  • Gastric volume may be calculated based on antral CSA and the patient’s age 
  • The following model has been developed for children based on a cohort of 100 fasted children between the ages of 11 months and 17 years old


VOLUME = -7.8 + (3.5 X RLD CSA) + (0.127) X AGE (MONTHS)


  • The upper limit of normal fasting volume in children is 1.1–1.2 mL/kg
  • A similar 3-point grading system as described for adults (link) can be used 
  • Higher grades correlate with higher volumes

Pediatric table

3. NEONATES AND PYLORIC STENOSIS


Gastric PoCUS allows us to ensure an empty stomach prior to induction and has a clear impact on anesthetic management.

4. EXAMPLES


Coming soon

5. CUT-OFF VALUES


Coming soon

6. NG TUBE INSERTION


Coming soon

Share Your Cases

  • Have an interesting case to share where gastric ultrasound made a difference to you or your patient?
  • Selected cases will be posted
  • Sources will be acknowledged
  • Please, mail your cases to edu@gastricultrasound.org
Gastric UltraSound