Randomized Study Evaluating the Role of Surgeon-Performed Ultrasound in the Management of the Acute Abdomen

Randomized Study Evaluating the Role of Surgeon-Performed Ultrasound in the Management of the Acute Abdomen

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether surgeon-performed ultrasound as a supplement to clinical investigation when a patient presents with abdominal pain in the emergency department can improve the management of the patient.

Surgeon-performed ultrasound bedside in the emergency department when a patient presents with abdominal pain is quite common in Continental Europe and USA. It is considered to be implemented at emergency departments all over Sweden. This is the first randomized study performed to evaluate the method. In our study we compare diagnostic accuracy and further management of patients admitted to the emergency department for abdominal pain, with or without examination with surgeon-performed ultrasound bedside.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Admitted to emergency ward for abdominal pain
• 18 years or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Condition that has to be taken care of immediately
• Inability to communicate with the investigator
• Previously diagnosed abdominal condition
• Severe drug or alcohol addiction
• Dementia