Some recollections of early work with bedside ultrasound in emergency medicine: the first 10 years

The early history of ultrasound in emergency medicine has remained for the most part undocumented up to this time. This piece represents personal recollections of the evolution of point-of-care ultrasound from its origins in the late 1980s in the United States. A description of ultrasound equipment, resistance to widespread implementation, the evolution of training, and fellowship programs with subsequent publications and committee developments are examined in detail. Special attention to the advancement of trauma ultrasound is also examined from the viewpoint of an early adopter. The purpose of this manuscript is to recognize the persistence and dedication of some of the early founders of emergency ultrasound, thus gaining a deeper appreciation for the scope of practice and meaningful use that emergency physicians are now using on a daily basis.