Lung ultrasound can be a useful alternative to CT scanning for managing patients with COVID-19, according to a report from Amsterdam-based Royal Philips published in Business Mirror.

As ultrasound devices are portable, these devices can be brought to the patient rather than bringing the patient to different rooms in the hospital to get scanned. By lessening patient movement, this also reduces patient exposure to other patients and health-care professionals.

Ultrasound devices can be easily disinfected. This allows for more patients to be scanned in a shorter time period, thus making health-care procedures more efficient.

They offer a user-friendly experience for care providers. With this type of diagnostic imaging process, there is no need for site planning as ultrasound devices are often a plug-and-play devices. It requires only basic ultrasound knowledge.

Ultrasound also reduces patients’ exposure to radiation, thereby minimizing other potential health risks.

Depending on the systems, remote capabilities for virtual collaboration is possible.

Being hybrid solutions, they can be used after the outbreak for other clinical necessities.

“Now more than ever, it is important for us to find health-care solutions that will help our medical frontliners provide the best care for patients affected with Covid-19. We are championing the benefits of ultrasound in the safe management of the outbreak, as these solutions could help us give the best care to patients while protecting our frontliners in the fight against Covid-19,” says Ashwin Chari, country manager, Philips Philippines. “Philips is acutely aware of the risks, stresses, and challenging conditions health-care providers globally are facing in response to the Covid-19 crisis.  At Philips, our top priority is supporting health-care professionals and patients during this difficult time.”

Read more from Business Mirror.