[Feasibility study of abdominal ultrasound using hand-held devices in homecare services]. / Estudio de viabilidad de la ecografía abdominal con dispositivos portátiles en atención domiciliaria.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The miniaturisation and portability of ultrasound devices allow the family doctor to apply them in areas such as the patient's home. The present study aims to prove that performing an abdominal ultrasound in the home of frail patients is feasible, decreases the delay in care, and reduces diagnostic uncertainty. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Case-control study. A sample of 59 patients was studied: 30 cases and 29 controls. A descriptive analysis of the case group was carried out and the delay variable was compared between both groups. RESULTS: A relevant and significant reduction, up to 10 times lower, was observed in the delay between the ultrasound performed in homecare compared those performed in the hospital. Of the patients, 73.4% only required clinical follow-up by their physician. In those patients who required other complementary tests or referrals, the definitive diagnosis was in complete agreement with the results of the ultrasound performed in homecare. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of ultrasound in homecare services is feasible and provides relevant clinical benefits for the patient and increases the resolution capacity of the professional.