Study of Diaphragm Changes in Patients Using Mechanical Ventilation or Extracorporeal Life Support as a Bridge to Lung Transplant

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying changes in the diaphragms structure, function, and biology in patients who are supported by mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal life support as they wait for lung transplantation. The study aims to understand how these different respiratory support methods may cause diaphragm injury and how these injuries relate to tissue changes seen under a microscope. This research may help improve methods to prevent diaphragm damage and interpret ultrasound images of the diaphragm. Participants include patients receiving mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal life support as a bridge to lung transplant, patients undergoing lung transplantation without prior respiratory support, and patients having elective thoracic surgery for lung or esophageal resection. The study uses bedside ultrasound to measure diaphragm thickness and compares these findings to tissue samples obtained during transplantation or surgery. During the study, participants will have ultrasound assessments to track diaphragm thickness and function, and tissue samples will be examined microscopically to identify structural changes. Researchers will monitor diaphragm thickness changes at baseline and 7 days after lung transplant, and assess biomarkers related to diaphragm dysfunction before transplantation. The study is observational, and participants are involved through routine clinical procedures and additional ultrasound and tissue evaluations.

Diaphragm Structure and Pathobiology in Patients Being Bridged to Lung Transplant