A TAE occurs when a lesion extends into the joint capsule of the elbow, contaminating the articular space of a joint and increasing risk of infection. Patients typically present to the ED as a trauma (such as an motor vehicle collision or gunshot wound). Early identification of TAEs allows for timely washout and debridement. Inadequately identified and managed TAEs increase patients’ risks of septic arthritis, decreased mobility, chronic pain, and mortality [1]…
Read MoreWe use ultrasound for a multitude of procedures in the emergency department, including central and peripheral venous access, abscess drainage, and joint aspiration. Less common, but just as useful, is the use of ultrasound to help identify landmarks when performing a lumbar puncture (LP). While the traditional method of LP is based on palpating anatomical landmarks, this is becoming increasingly difficult as the patient population becomes more obese. It may also be difficult in patients who have abnormal spinal anatomy or in those who have had previous spinal surgery. When palpating anatomy is difficult, ultrasound can be a useful tool to help identify appropriate landmarks and increase your LP success rate…
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