24-05: Left Upper Quadrant (Perisplenic View)

Technique

• The transducer indicator is directed toward the axilla.

• With the indicator pointed toward the patient’s head, the transducer is oriented in a coronal section through the body in the mid to posterior axillary line extending from the 9th through 12th ribs. Start between the 11th and 12th ribs initially, then move cephalad or caudal, anterior or posterior, to complete the evaluation (Fig. 24.14). As a general rule of thumb, the perisplenic view is more posterior and cephalad than that of the RUQ view.

• Identify and evaluate the area surrounding the spleen, including its upper and lower poles, the interface with the diaphragm, and the interface with the left kidney. Normally, the surrounding tissues of the spleen and kidney are in direct contact with one another (Fig. 24.15).

Abnormal Findings

• Hemoperitoneum: Anechoic (black) region around the spleen. This may be visible at the superior or inferior poles of the spleen, between the spleen and the diaphragm or between the spleen and left kidney. Unlike the Morison’s pouch, blood cannot flow beyond the inferior pole of the spleen down the paracolic gutter due to the phrenicocolic ligament. Blood that collects in the perisplenic space must first pass out of the lesser peritoneal sac and into the greater peritoneal sac before it will be seen collecting along the left paracolic gutter (Fig. 24.16).

• Solid organ injury: Ultrasound is an insensitive exam for solid organ injury. Injuries such as splenic and renal lacerations as well as organ rupture have been described but are not the goal of this examination.

Pearls ...