focused assessment with sonography for trauma
Also written as: FAST — Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma
A rapid bedside ultrasound examination used to detect free fluid in the abdomen and pelvis of trauma patients.
Full Definition
Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) is a point-of-care ultrasound protocol designed to rapidly identify hemoperitoneum in trauma patients. The examination consists of four standard views: right upper quadrant (hepatorenal recess), left upper quadrant (splenorenal recess), pelvis (pouch of Douglas), and subxiphoid (pericardial). The primary goal is to detect free fluid, which in the trauma setting is presumed to be blood. FAST has largely replaced diagnostic peritoneal lavage due to its non-invasive nature and rapid execution. Extended FAST (eFAST) includes bilateral thoracic views to assess for pneumothorax and hemothorax.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from eFAST (extended FAST) which includes thoracic views.
In Context
- "The emergency physician performed a focused assessment with sonography for trauma, which was negative for free fluid." — Emergency department note
- "A positive focused assessment with sonography for trauma in an unstable patient warrants immediate surgical intervention." — Trauma surgery guidelines