Study on Joint Contractures in Adults on Mechanical Ventilation in the ICU Tracking Causes and Frequency of Joint Stiffness During ICU Stay

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how often and why joint contractures develop in adults who are mechanically ventilated and immobilized in the intensive care unit ICU. This observational study focuses on patients with impaired consciousness and explores how prolonged immobilization, sedation, and muscle relaxation may lead to joint stiffness that affects recovery and rehabilitation after ICU discharge. Adult patients admitted to the ICU who are mechanically ventilated and immobilized will be enrolled within 48 hours of admission. They will receive standard ICU care and physiotherapy, including positioning and joint exercises. Joint motion will be measured twice weekly using a goniometer to detect any reduction of at least 33% compared to normal movement. No experimental treatments will be given during the study. Participants will be followed throughout their ICU stay, with data collected on demographics, clinical factors, and ICU treatments. Researchers will track the incidence and timing of joint contractures and analyze factors linked to their development. Assessments will continue for up to 28 days or until ICU discharge or death, aiming to provide insights for better prevention and rehabilitation strategies in critical care.

Incidence and Determinants of Joint Contractures in Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients