Point-of-care ultrasound in obstetric anesthesia clinical practice.

Abstract

Purpose of the review: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool in obstetric anesthesia. This review synthesizes key studies and reviews published within the last 2 years on its application in clinical practice with relevant supporting literature.

Recent findings: Handheld ultrasound-assisted neuraxial block placement modestly reduces periprocedure time compared with landmark-based techniques. Devices with integrated three-dimensional or artificial intelligence-guided software may improve first-attempt success, particularly in obese patients. Focused cardiac ultrasound has gained interest as a potential tool for predicting postspinal hypotension through predelivery inferior vena cava collapsibility assessment. POCUS is also valuable for evaluating shock and cardiovascular compromise, aiding in the diagnosis and clinical management of amniotic fluid embolism and maternal cardiomyopathy. Gastric ultrasound can be performed qualitatively, aids aspiration risk assessment, and can be used in studies evaluating drug effects on gastric contents and antral cross-sectional area. Robust training programs are essential to equip obstetric anesthesiologists with sustainable POCUS skill sets.

Summary: POCUS is associated with reduced neuraxial block placement times, provides critical hemodynamic data in patients with amniotic fluid embolism and cardiomyopathy, and allows gastric content evaluation for aspiration risk assessment. Expanding structured training and research is crucial to maximizing its clinical utility.