The success of ultrasound in trauma has encouraged surgeons to extend
its use into the acute setting. Essentials of selected ultrasound exam
inations used for the evaluation of the patient with an acute abdomen,
hypotension, or soft-tissue infection are discussed. The diagnostic a
nd therapeutic ultrasound tests frequently performed by the surgeon wh
ile on rounds in the intensive care unit enhance the physical examinat
ion and facilitate patient care. This article illustrates specific are
as in which surgeon-performed ultrasound can assist with the diagnosis
and therapy of patients with acute surgical problems and those in the
surgical intensive care unit.