Ultrasonography USG  has become increasingly recognized as a powerful tool in the early detection and management of postoperative pulmonary complications particularly following major abdominal surgeries

These surgeries often carry a high risk of respiratory compromise due to factors such as anesthesia pain-induced hypoventilation diaphragmatic dysfunction and prolonged immobility

PULMONARY COMPLICATIONS including atelectasis pneumonia pleural effusion pulmonary edema pneumothorax are associated with increased morbidity, longer hospital stays and higher healthcare costs

Traditionally chest X rays and clinical evaluation have been the mainstay for diagnosing complications however these methods may lack sensitivity or be delayed especially in critically ill patients

In contrast USG offers several advantages it is portable repeatable free of ionizing radiation and allows dynamic assessment at the bedside

Lung ultrasound can detect subtle changes in lung aeration visualize pleural movement and identify fluid collections with high sensitivity and specificity

USG can be particularly beneficial in the immediate postoperative period when rapid decision-making is essential and patient transport for imaging may be risky It enables clinicians to differentiate between various causes of respiratory distress and tailor interventions accordingly such as fluid management physiotherapy or antibiotic therapy

As evidence supporting its use continues to grow USG is increasingly being integrated into perioperative care protocols as a frontline diagnostic modality for post operative pulmonary complications