eFAST
Pronunciation: E-fast
Also written as: eFAST — Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma
Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma that includes lung examination for pneumothorax detection.
Full Definition
Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST) is an expansion of the traditional FAST examination that includes bilateral lung ultrasound to detect pneumothorax in addition to the standard assessment for hemoperitoneum and hemopericardium. The eFAST protocol examines the same four traditional windows (hepatorenal recess, splenorenal recess, pelvis, and pericardium) while adding bilateral anterior chest examination to identify absent lung sliding and the presence of lung point, which indicate pneumothorax. This extended protocol has become increasingly popular in trauma centers as it provides a more comprehensive initial assessment while maintaining the speed and non-invasive nature of bedside ultrasound.
Usage
Usage note: Write as 'eFAST' with lowercase 'e' and uppercase 'FAST', not 'EFAST' or 'E-FAST'.
In Context
- "The eFAST examination revealed no free fluid but showed absent lung sliding concerning for right pneumothorax." — Emergency department assessment
- "Training on eFAST technique should include recognition of lung point to accurately diagnose pneumothorax." — Educational protocol