Comparative Ultrasound Review of Free Intra-Peritoneal Fluid (Ascites)

The aim of this study is to review clinical case ascites and the use of ultrasound for the detection/classification of free intra-peritoneal fluid. Current therapeutic modality is in support of ultrasound guided paracentesis/thoracocentesis as a multidisciplinary procedure for ascitic reduction. Post-surgical free intra-peritoneal fluid is a common iatrogenic complication. We present ascitic cases of diseased conditions, questionable origins (in females) following hernia reduction and laparoscopic procedures to evaluate ascitic etiology through ultrasound. Average attenuation and quadrant sum of largest fluid pocket ultrasound (frozen) images were measured. 12 patients with free intra-peritoneal fluid had identifiable anatomical organs: liver, kidneys, urinary bladder and bowel loops. The size of maximal pocket of ascitic fluid in ill-patients was 1210/300 mm2, while fluid in subjects with non-traumatic injury was clear (free of striations) and appeared less dense.