Ultrasonography of acute retroperitoneum

Ultrasonography. 2024 Feb 14. doi: 10.14366/usg.23232. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

The retroperitoneum is an important space in the human body that is often implicated in a range Epub ahead of print of acute medical conditions, some of which can be life-threatening. Ultrasonography may serve as a pivotal first-line imaging technique when assessing patients with suspected retroperitoneal abnormalities. Effective ultrasonography of the retroperitoneum requires a comprehensive grasp of its anatomy, adjacent structures, and potential pathologies. Being well-acquainted with the imaging characteristics of acute conditions can meaningfully assist in an accurate diagnosis and guide subsequent management. This review article summarizes and illustrates the acute conditions involving the retroperitoneum through the lens of ultrasound imaging.

Keywords: Acute disease; Emergencies; Retroperitoneum; Ultrasound.