POCUS for Cardiorespiratory Disease (Interactive Session)

Point of care Ultrasound (POCUS) is becoming more common in the assessment of cardiorespiratory disease by non-specialist due to the easier and more inexpensive access to technology. The use of this technology has been shown to improve diagnostic accuracy and objective patient outcomes in many human and veterinary conditions. We will review existing knowledge about POCUS for evaluation of the cardiovascular and respiratory system. We will also present new knowledge about a standardized protocol for assessment of cardiorespiratory disease in the horse and the accuracy to detect common abnormalities.
While some specialists have enthusiastically adopted some POCUS, the negative effects of technology in the ability of clinicians to obtain and interpret physical examinations or the emphasis on tools versus knowledge degrading the perceived value of internists are concerns of some specialists. A panel of experts representing large animal internists in private practice, academicians, practice owners and small animal cardiologists will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, limitations, and implications of the widespread use of POCUS by the specialist and the non-specialist.