Puddle sign

Puddle sign is a medical term used to describe a physical examination technique used to detect the presence of ascites, which is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen. This technique is often used in the diagnosis of various medical conditions, including liver disease, heart failure, and cancer.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure for the puddle sign involves the patient lying flat on their back for approximately ten minutes. The examiner then taps one side of the patient's abdomen while listening on the other side. If a splashing sound is heard, this is indicative of the presence of free fluid in the abdomen, suggesting ascites.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

The puddle sign is a simple and non-invasive method for detecting ascites. However, it is not as sensitive as other methods, such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan. Therefore, it is often used as a preliminary test, with positive results confirmed by more accurate diagnostic methods.

Limitations[edit | edit source]

While the puddle sign can be useful in detecting ascites, it has several limitations. It is less sensitive than other diagnostic methods, and it can only detect larger amounts of fluid. Additionally, it can be difficult to perform correctly, and the results can be influenced by factors such as the patient's body position and the examiner's technique.

References[edit | edit source]

Puddle sign Resources
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