POCUS - Gastric ultrasound

Description

Gastric ultrasound using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a bedside tool to assess gastric content and volume, primarily for aspiration risk evaluation in preoperative or critically ill patients. Scanning is performed in the epigastric region, visualizing the gastric antrum in supine and right lateral decubitus positions. Findings help classify the stomach as empty, clear fluid, or solid. It guides anesthetic decision-making, especially in emergencies or patients with uncertain fasting status, improving airway safety and perioperative care.