[Ultrasonics in abdominal emergencies. Results of a series of 179 cases].

The study of a series of 179 emergency ultrasonic examinations showed a sensitivity of 97% and a specificity of 98%. Such results confirm the reliability of real-time sonography in the assessment of the acute abdomen, obstructive intestinal syndromes still requiring mainly conventional procedures. With this exception, the part of ultrasound in the diagnostic and the therapeutic strategies is essential. Associated to plain X-ray films, it enables one to curb down the number of other imaging procedures, such as IVP, angiography, or CT. Emergency ultrasound, particularly in traumatology, requires trained, competent radiologists. Performant machines should be available in admittance and intensive care wards.