Using Ultrasound to Measure Diaphragm Movement to Predict Lung Problems After Heart Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the potential of Diaphragmatic Inspiratory Amplitude DIA measured by ultrasound as a predictor for Post-Operative Pulmonary Complications POPCs in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. POPCs, which include pneumonia, atelectasis, and prolonged mechanical ventilation, pose significant risks such as increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Diaphragmatic dysfunction, occurring in up to 20% of cardiac surgery patients, is linked to these respiratory complications but remains under-evaluated in this context. The study involves measuring DIA using ultrasound before surgery and on the first day after surgery on both sides of the diaphragm during quiet and deep breathing. Eight measurements per patient are taken to assess diaphragmatic movement. Standard cardiac surgery care, including anesthesia and monitoring protocols, continues as usual. Ultrasound measurements are conducted with specific probes to ensure consistent assessment, and postoperative care follows institutional protocols without influence from DIA results. Participants will be monitored for POPCs up to five days after surgery or until hospital discharge. Data collected include diaphragmatic movement measurements, clinical assessments, and diagnoses of pulmonary complications based on established guidelines. Measurements are taken when patients are comfortable and off mechanical ventilation or non-invasive ventilation. The primary outcome is to determine if DIA can predict POPCs, with outcomes reviewed by investigators unaware of DIA results to maintain impartiality.

Diaphragmatic Inspiratory Amplitude as a Prognosticator for Postoperative Pulmonary Complications After Cardiac Surgery