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POCUS Atlas

One-minute image review

Sixty seconds, one clip, one voice

The POCUS Atlas team talks you through a single loop: how the probe sits, what the normal looks like, and what the abnormal is doing. 56 videos, grouped by organ system. Each loads only when you press play.

Echo 15

Normal

Normal Subxiphoid View

In this video, Dr. Elias Jaffa discusses how to properly obtain the subxiphoid view along with the pertinent visualized sonoanatomy.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Fine Ventricular Fibrillation

In this video, we discuss a cardiac arrest case demonstrating fine ventricular fibrillation initially thought to be asystole based on rhythm evaluation!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Evaluating for Reduced Ejection Fraction on PSLA

In this video Dr. Elias Jaffa discusses specific characteristics of the left ventricle that can be utilized when evaluating left ventricular function on the parasternal long axis view (PSLA).

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Aorta Versus The IVC

In this video, Dr. Elias Jaffa discusses how to differentiate between the aorta and the IVC on ultrasound.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Cardiac Tamponade - PSLA

In this video we discuss findings of a pericardial effusion with evidence of cardiac tamponade in a parasternal long axis view. Specifically we discuss the finding of right ventricular diastolic collapse.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Parasternal Short Axis View

In this video, Elias Jaffa discusses imaging of the normal parasternal short axis view including probe orientation and sonoanatomy.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Apical 4 Chamber View

In this video, we discuss a normal apical 4 chamber view including features that suggest proper imaging as well as the utility of this view in point of care echocardiographic evaluation.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Hyperdynamic Left Ventricle

In this video we discuss findings in a hyperdynamic left ventricle and its clinical implications.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

A Plethoric IVC

In this video, we discuss a normal apical 4 chamber view including features that suggest proper imaging as well as the utility of this view in point of care echocardiographic evaluation.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

The D Sign

In this clip we discuss the important ultrasound finding known the D-Sign. When the D sign is present throughout systole and diastole, this indicated RV pressure overload which may be from etiologies including pulmonary embolism or pulmonary hypertension.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

PathologyClinical Case

POCUS Findings in Sympathetic Crashing Acute Pulmonary Edema SCAPE

In this video we discuss ultrasound findings seen in a patient with SCAPE. In general these patients are very sick from acute redistribution of fluid into their lungs and the treatment should focus on NIPPV and high dose nitroglycerine.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Aortic Root Dilation in Acute Aortic Dissection

In this image we discuss an enlarged aortic root seen on parasternal long axis in the setting of acute aortic dissection. The aortic root is normally < 4cm and any dilation in the setting of acute chest symptoms should raise suspicion for Type A aortic dissection and further imaging and specialist consultation should be considered.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Right Ventricular Strain in Pulmonary Embolism

In this clip we discuss several signs seen in pulmonary embolism with right ventricular strain including: RV dilation, McConnell’s sign and thrombus (clot)-in-transit.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

A Comparison of Pleural Findings in COVID 19 Versus Acute CHF

In this video we discuss pleural findings in both COVID 19 and CHF and how to distinguish between the two distinct entities using ultrasound.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Parasternal Long Axis View

In this video we discuss the normal sono-anatomy of the parasternal long axis view.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Lung 8

Pathology

Pleural Effusion

In this video, Dr. Elias Jaffa discusses how to utilize ultrasound to evaluate for a pleural effusion.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Pneumothorax

In this video, Dr. Elias Jaffa dives into ultrasound use in pneumothorax including exam operating characteristics, lung sliding, and the pathognomonic lung point!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Lung Sliding

In this week's video we discuss lung sliding which is a normal finding in lung ultrasound that rules out a pneumothorax.

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Normal

I -lines - AKA Comet Tails

In this video we discuss a common artifact seen in lung ultrasound including its ultrasound characteristics and clinical utility.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

The Spine Sign

In this video we review the findings of a pleural effusion including the "Spine Sign" and why it occurs.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Dynamic Air Bronchograms in Lobar Pneumonia

In this video we discuss two findings that can be seen in a lobar pneumonia including hepatization of the lung and dynamic air bronchograms.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Mirror Artifact At A Normal Lung Base

Mirror artifact is seen when there is a highly reflective surface encountered by an ultrasound beam such as the surface of the diaphragm. It is a useful artifact that RULES OUT a pleural effusion when present at a lung base.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Subpleural Consolidation in COVID 19 Pneumonia

In this video we discuss the sonographic characteristics of a sub-pleural consolidation in the setting of a patient who was ultimately diagnosed with COVID-19.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

FAST and trauma 4

Normal

Right Upper Quadrant View

In this video we discuss the normal sono-anatomy of the right upper quadrant view performed during FAST exam along with important pearls when evaluating this view for free fluid!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Positive RUQ View At Liver Tip

In this video we discuss an ultrasound clip demonstrating free fluid in the right upper quadrant. We review relevant sono-anatomy, clinical correlation, and the importance of the caudal liver tip!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Positive FAST in LUQ View

This is an ultrasound clip demonstrating free fluid present in the left upper quadrant. It is important to note that free fluid in the left upper quadrant usually accumulates first between the spleen and the diaphragm so be sure to include this area in your evaluation!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Left Upper Quadrant View

In this video, we discuss the sono-anatomy of a normal left upper quadrant view.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Aorta 3

Normal

Proximal Aorta

In this video we review the anatomy of the proximal aorta in both a transverse and longitudinal orientation.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Aortic Dissection - Short Axis

In this video, we discuss findings of acute aortic dissection. Specifically we identify a dissection flap seen in the abdominal aorta on a short axis view. Voice over and annotations by Dr. Elias Jaffa.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

In this video we discuss signs of a ruptured AAA and compare this to findings seen in a non-ruptured AAA.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Biliary 3

Pathology

Cholecystitis

In this video, Dr. Elias Jaffa (@jaffa_md) discusses an ultrasound clip demonstrating findings seen in acute cholecystitis.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Gallbladder in Long Axis

In this video we discuss imaging of the gallbladder and identification of the portal triad.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Gallstones in the Neck of the Gallbladder

In this video we discuss obtaining a long axis view of the gallbladder and identifying gallstones in the gallbladder neck. In this image we also discuss the LACK of signs of cholecystitis suggesting a diagnosis of acute biliary colic.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

OB and gynaecology 4

Pregnancy

Utilizing A Linear Probe For Early IUP Confirmation

In this video, we discuss how to use a linear probe when evaluating for an IUP to improve early pregnancy diagnosis.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pregnancy

Measuring Fetal Heart Rate

In this video we discuss utilizing M-mode to calculate fetal heart rate in early pregnancy.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pregnancy

Definitive IUP - Fetal Pole

In this video we discuss evaluation of a definitive IUP with visualization of both a fetal pole and yolk sac.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Can't Miss Ectopic Pregnancy

In this clip we demonstrate an ectopic pregnancy that on first glance could be called an intrauterine pregnancy if not carefully evaluated. When confirming the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy it is very important to first identify the uterus, then evaluate in both sagittal and transverse planes to ensure the pregnancy lies within the uterus.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Ocular 4

Pathology

Retinal Detachment

In this video Dr. Nhu Nguyen Le discusses an ultrasound image demonstrating a retinal detachment. He also reviews this image in comparison to vitreous detachment which can be a common mimic.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Vitreous Detachment

In this week's video we discuss the characteristics of a vitreous detachment along with important aspects of performing a proper ocular ultrasound to evaluate for retinal pathology.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Ocular Ultrasound Anatomy

In this video we discuss important sonoanatomy of the eye as well as key points regarding proper ocular examination technique.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Simultaneous Vitreous & Retinal Detachment

In this ultrasound clip we identify both a vitreous and retinal detachment. We also briefly discuss the difference between these two entities based on their relationship to the optic nerve.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

MSK 6

Pathology

Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

In this video Dr. Nhu Nguyen Le discusses correct probe placement and sonoanatomy for evaluation of shoulder dislocation. Note that ultrasound can be used to make the diagnosis but also to confirm that the shoulder has been appropriately reduced!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Hip Effusion

In this video Dr. Nhu Nguyen Le discusses how to identify a hip effusion in a patient with a suspected septic joint.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Wrist Effusion

In this video Dr. Nhu-Nguyen Le discusses how to evaluate for a wrist joint effusion using point of care ultrasound.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Procedural

Ultrasound Guidance In Hematoma Block

In this video we demonstrate ultrasound findings in a displaced distal radius fracture and provide strategies to perform an ultrasound guided hematoma block.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Normal

Normal Sonoanatomy of the Musculoskeletal Layers

In this video we review the normal sonoanatomy of the various tissue layers evaluated during soft tissue and musculoskeletal ultrasound.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Patellar Tendon Rupture

This is an ultrasound clip demonstrating a complete patellar tendon rupture in a patient presenting to the emergency department with sudden knee pain, swelling and inability to ambulate.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Soft tissue 5

Normal

Don't Confuse a Lymph Node with an Abscess!

In this week's video we discuss the characteristics of a lymph node seen on ultrasound as well as the importance of color doppler in distinguishing this structure from a fluid collection.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Identification of A Felon Using Ultrasound

In this video we discuss the imaging findings of a finger tip abscess, aka a felon, as well as proper technique to evaluate distal finger tip infections.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Soft Tissue Foreign Bodies

Ultrasound can be an excellent adjunct for both evaluation and removal of a soft tissue foreign body. In today's video we discuss characteristic sonographic features of foreign bodies.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

Subcutaneous Emphysema

In today's video we discuss the appearance of air in the soft tissue. This finding can be seen as air tracks into the soft tissue from a pneumothorax but also can be associated with gas producing organisms in the setting of infection such as necrotizing fasciitis.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Pathology

The Swirl Sign Can Identify A Subtle Abscess

In this clip we discuss the swirl sign and how it can be used to identify a fluid collection or abscess that may have been otherwise missed.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Renal 1

Pathology

Mild Hydronephrosis from an Ureteral Stone

In this video, we discuss renal anatomy and signs of mild hydronephrosis. Note that USUALLY ultrasound does not identify the ureteral stone itself but instead looks for indirect signs of a stone. The presence of unilateral hydronephrosis on the side of pain in conjunction with high clinical suspicion for obstructing stone should be taken into account when using this finding for diagnostic purposes.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

GI 1

Pathology

Small Bowel Obstruction

In today's video we discuss ultrasound findings suggestive of small bowel obstruction.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Procedural 2

Procedural

General Nerve Block Principles

In this video Dr. Nhu Nguyen Le discusses several essential nerve block concepts as we view an example of a supraclavicular brachial plexus block!

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Procedural

Ultrasound Guidance for Paracentesis

In this video Dr. Elias Jaffa discusses how to utilize ultrasound to facilitate a safe and successful paracentesis.

The POCUS Atlas, CC BY-NC 4.0

Videos are hosted by The POCUS Atlas on YouTube and embedded from its image review page, under CC BY-NC 4.0. Non-commercial use only.