Cross-sectional Study on Muscle Thickness and Fluid Balance in Intensive Care Patients Using Ultrasound and Bioelectrical Impedance

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore how muscle thickness and subcutaneous tissue changes, measured by ultrasound, relate to fluid compartments assessed through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Patients in the ICU often suffer from muscle loss and tissue swelling caused by inflammation, lack of movement, and fluid treatments. The study seeks to better understand these changes and their impact on muscle strength and recovery at ICU discharge. The study uses daily ultrasound and BIA measurements to monitor muscle thickness and fluid balance in ICU patients. Ultrasound will focus on muscles like the rectus femoris, tibialis anterior, and biceps brachii, while BIA will estimate body water and fluid compartments. Data collection will include clinical parameters, fluid balance, and body weight, all taken with patients positioned in a standardized way. At ICU discharge, muscle strength will be evaluated using the MRC-sum score and handgrip strength with a dynamometer. Participants will undergo daily assessments from ICU admission until discharge or up to 28 days, including ultrasound, BIA, fluid balance tracking, and clinical data monitoring. The study will analyze the relationship between fluid overload, muscle thickness changes, and edema, and how these factors affect muscle strength at discharge. This information aims to guide early rehabilitation and improve care strategies for critically ill patients.

Muscle and Subcutaneous Tissue Variation by Ultrasound and Impedance Linked to Fluid Balance in ICU Patients