Evaluation of Diaphragmatic Stroke Ultrasound for Diagnosing Acute Respiratory Distress Causes in the Emergency Department: A Prospective Multicenter Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of diaphragmatic ultrasound as a diagnostic tool in adult emergency departments for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress (ARD). The study aims to evaluate the usefulness of measuring the Sum of Plateau Times (SPT) with Clinical Ultrasound in Emergency Medicine to diagnose pneumopathy during ARD. Secondary goals include assessing other ultrasound parameters like inspiratory and expiratory plateau times and their role in diagnosing COPD exacerbation and acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema. Participants aged 18 and older who come to the emergency department with ARD will receive a right diaphragmatic ultrasound performed by trained doctors using a specialized cardiac probe. The examination involves the patient sitting at a 45-degree angle while spontaneous breathing occurs. The ultrasound captures six respiratory cycles to measure specific diaphragmatic movement times. Clinical and biological data will be collected later to confirm diagnoses by expert reviewers. During the study, participants will undergo the diaphragmatic ultrasound exam and have their medical records reviewed for clinical and laboratory information. Researchers will analyze ultrasound measurements like SPT to determine their accuracy in diagnosing pneumopathy and other conditions causing respiratory distress. The study will monitor specificity, sensitivity, predictive values, and likelihood ratios related to these ultrasound parameters. Participation involves one diagnostic procedure and follow-up assessments based on medical record review, with no intervention beyond standard care.

Evaluation of the Relevance of Diaphragmatic Stroke Ultrasound for the Etiological Diagnosis of Acute Respiratory Distress in an Emergency Department.