The FAST exam has replaced which technique for evaluating hemodynamically unstable patients?

The Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) exam has become a widely adopted tool for rapidly assessing hemodynamically unstable patients, particularly in the setting of suspected abdominal trauma. This quick bedside ultrasound technique enables physicians to detect the presence of free fluid (such as blood) in the peritoneal cavity, which indicates potential internal bleeding and helps guide immediate management decisions.

Diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) was historically used as an invasive procedure to evaluate intra-abdominal injuries by introducing a saline solution into the peritoneal cavity and subsequently analyzing the fluid for blood or other abnormalities. While DPL was effective, it is more invasive, requires more time, and carries a higher risk of complications compared to the non-invasive FAST exam. Therefore, the adoption of the FAST exam has led to a decline in the use of DPL, as it can be performed quickly and safely at the bedside, allowing for real-time decision-making without the need for additional invasive procedures.

In summary, the FAST exam has replaced DPL in the evaluation of hemodynamically unstable patients due to its speed, safety, and effectiveness in identifying critical conditions rapidly.