Evaluation of Pocket Ultrasonography in Anesthesia Practice in the Operating Room: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: POCUS by Pocket ultrasonography is transforming anesthesia practice by enhancing procedural precision in vascular access, nerve blocks, and hemodynamic monitoring. While traditional ultrasound systems are bulky pocket ultrasono machines offer portability and cost-efficiency. This study evaluates POCUS effectiveness in the operating room, focusing on accuracy, efficiency, and clinical outcomes. Despite its advantages, challenges like image resolution and learning curves persist. Objectives: Promote POCUS use in anesthesia; enhance accuracy, safety, and awareness; establish POCUS as the "second stethoscope"; minimize errors; improve cardiac assessments. Methods and Materials: This prospective observational study conducted at Department of Anesthesiology, Ad-din Sakina Medical College Hospital (ASMCH), Pulerhat, Jashore, from June 2023 to May 2024 included 68 surgical patients. POCUS was used for vascular access, nerve blocks, and airway assessments. Data on time, success rates, complications, and operator satisfaction were recorded. Inclusion: ASA I–III adults; exclusion: anatomical deformities or refusal. SPSS v23 analyzed categorical (frequency, %) and continuous (mean ± SD) variables. Ethical approval and consent were obtained, adhering to Helsinki Declaration principles. Result: Among 68 patients (mean age 36.2±10.5 years; 55.9% male), POCUS was most used in general (35.3%) and orthopedic (22.1%) surgeries. Vascular access (41.2%) and nerve blocks (35.3%) were primary indications. First-attempt success rates were high (vascular: 89.3%; nerve blocks: 87.5%). Most procedures (76.4%) were completed within 10 minutes. User satisfaction was 100%, with minor complications in 7.4%. POCUS outperformed traditional methods in success rates (89% vs. 72%, p<0.05) and procedural speed (p<0.01). Conclusion: POCUS enhances anesthesia accuracy, safety, and decision-making, serving as a modern "second stethoscope" for efficient perioperative care.