Monitoring Muscle Health Over Time in Adults with Sepsis in Intensive Care Units

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying muscle dysfunction that occurs in about 40% of patients during intensive care, especially those with sepsis. This muscle problem affects both limb and breathing muscles, leading to weakness and difficulty weaning off ventilators. The condition worsens with longer immobility and inadequate nutrition and is linked to longer ICU stays, lasting physical impairments, and higher long-term mortality. Participants receive standard ICU care without changes to early mobilization, physiotherapy, or nutrition. Their muscle condition is monitored over time through clinical tests, ultrasound, electromyography, and blood samples. Follow-up visits occur from enrollment through ICU discharge and up to 90 days after, assessing muscle strength, inflammation, organ function, physical autonomy, cognitive function, mood, and nutritional status. During the study, participants undergo muscle strength assessments like the Medical Research Council score and handgrip tests with electromyography. Ultrasound scans and electroneuromyography help evaluate muscle and diaphragm function. Blood tests monitor inflammation and organ dysfunction. At 90 days, functional tests such as a 6-minute walk and cognitive assessments are performed. The study aims to understand muscle changes in ICU patients with sepsis to inform future care improvements.

Characterization and Longitudinal Monitoring of Muscular Phenotype in Patients Admitted to Intensive Care for Sepsis