Studying Muscle Function via L3 CT Scans and Its Link to 3-Month Survival After ICU Stay for Septic Shock Patients

What this Trial Is About

Muscle dysfunction in intensive care units ICUs is linked to serious health problems and death. This research investigates the value of measuring muscle function using CT scans at the third lumbar level in patients admitted to ICUs for septic shock. The study aims to understand how muscle mass and quality relate to patient outcomes, as previous retrospective studies suggest muscle impairment may increase mortality. Participants are patients admitted to the ICU with septic shock who have had a non-contrast CT scan within 48 hours before or 24 hours after admission. The study evaluates muscle parameters from these CT scans, including total muscle mass, muscle density, and fat excretion fraction at the L3 level. These measurements are taken at inclusion and monitored over time. During the study, researchers assess muscle function and severity scores at multiple points inclusion, 10 days, and 90 days after ICU admission. Tests include SOFA severity scoring, muscle mass and density measurements, Medical Research Council MRC muscle strength scoring, and handgrip strength tests. The main outcome is mortality 90 days after ICU discharge. The study involves ongoing data collection until May 2030 to understand the relationship between muscle function and survival.

Association Between Muscle L3 CT Scan Muscle Derived Parameters of Muscle Function Upon Intensive Care Unit Admission and 3 Months Mortality After ICU Discharge for Patients Admitted for Septic Shock. The SIMS Study