Which imaging modality is used to perform FAST and E-FAST assessments?

• A. X-ray.
• B. CT without contrast.
• C. Ultrasound.
• D. MRI.

Answer: (C)

FAST and E-FAST rely on bedside ultrasound to quickly identify internal bleeding and issues like pneumothorax after trauma. Ultrasound is used because it provides real-time images at the patient’s side, is radiation-free, and can be repeated as the patient’s condition changes. In FAST, the scan checks for free fluid in the abdominal and pelvic spaces, and in the extended version it also assesses the heart for pericardial effusion and the chest for pneumothorax. X-ray or CT aren’t ideal for the rapid, unstable patient: X-ray is less sensitive for small fluid volumes, CT requires moving the patient and takes longer, and MRI isn’t practical in acute trauma.