focused abdominal sonography
Also written as: FAST — focused abdominal sonography for trauma
Point-of-care ultrasound examination used to detect free intraperitoneal fluid in trauma patients.
Full Definition
A rapid bedside ultrasound examination performed to evaluate for the presence of free intraperitoneal fluid (blood) in trauma patients with suspected abdominal injury. The examination typically includes four standardized views: right upper quadrant (hepatorenal pouch), left upper quadrant (splenorenal pouch), pelvis (pouch of Douglas), and subxiphoid cardiac view. While FAST cannot determine the source of bleeding or quantify blood loss, a positive study in an unstable patient often prompts immediate surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: FAST is standard abbreviation; specify positive or negative findings with anatomical location.
In Context
- "Focused abdominal sonography revealed free fluid in Morrison's pouch." — Emergency department evaluation
- "The FAST examination was negative despite clinical suspicion for intra-abdominal injury." — Trauma team assessment