Impact of Echocardiography Integration on Outcomes in Septic Shock Patients in ICU: A Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of integrating point-of-care (POC) echocardiography in the management of septic shock patients treated according to the Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines. Analyzing data from seven studies involving 3,885 patients, the findings revealed that POC echocardiography significantly reduced in-hospital and 28-day mortality rates, increased the initiation of inotropic support, and shortened the time to achieve lactate clearance. However, no significant effects were observed on 24-hour fluid intake or mechanical ventilation-free days. The study highlights the potential benefits of POC echocardiography but emphasizes the need for larger cohort studies to refine protocols in septic shock management.