Integrated Cardiac and Lung Ultrasound (ICLUS) in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Purpose of Review: This review highlights the use of basic lung ultrasound and introduces the concept of integrated cardiac and lung ultrasound (ICLUS) in the care of patients in the cardiac intensive care unit (ICU). Recent Findings: Cardiac ultrasound is a fundamental imaging modality that is the gold standard for the diagnosis of cardiac pathology at the bedside. However, the demographics of the modern cardiac ICU are evolving to encompass patients with complex multi-organ system dysfunction in addition to acute cardiovascular disease. Therefore, a more comprehensive diagnostic approach is needed to allow the cardiologist to unravel the potential interplay of multiple pathologic processes. Literature on lung ultrasound has expanded dramatically in recent years as it has proven to be a feasible and accurate exam that provides rapid diagnosis of pulmonary pathology including pneumothorax, pleural effusion, pneumonia, and pulmonary edema. Furthermore, combined cardiac and lung sonography exposes the interaction of circulatory and pulmonary physiology that is central to the diagnosis and management of acute cardiovascular disease. ICLUS provides valuable information for the diagnosis and management of conditions such as respiratory failure, shock, and heart failure. Summary: Numerous studies in recent years have illustrated the utility of lung ultrasound in various clinical settings. Integration of lung and cardiac ultrasound provides the cardiologist with a more holistic examination of the medically complex patients that are admitted to the modern cardiac ICU. © 2018, Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.