Ultrasound Evaluation of Fluid Responsiveness in Adults with Sepsis on Mechanical Ventilation Using Carotid Doppler and Echocardiography

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether measuring blood flow in the common carotid artery with bedside Doppler ultrasound can accurately identify fluid responsiveness in adults with sepsis who are on mechanical ventilation. The study compares this method to cardiac output measurements obtained by transthoracic echocardiography, a commonly used non-invasive technique. The goal is to find a faster, simpler bedside tool to guide fluid resuscitation in critically ill patients. Participants will undergo ultrasound assessments before and during a passive leg raising maneuver, which temporarily increases blood return to the heart to simulate a fluid challenge without giving fluids immediately. Blood flow in the carotid artery and cardiac output will be measured at baseline and during the maneuver. If the participant meets criteria for fluid responsiveness, they will receive a 500 mL intravenous crystalloid fluid bolus, followed by reassessment. During the study, participants will have bedside Doppler ultrasound and echocardiographic measurements, along with routine monitoring of vital signs and organ function. The main outcome is how accurately carotid artery blood flow predicts fluid responsiveness compared to cardiac output. Researchers will also assess the ease, speed, and reliability of carotid ultrasound in this setting. Data will be carefully reviewed and analyzed to determine diagnostic performance and clinical usefulness.

A Study Comparing Carotid Doppler Ultrasound and Echocardiography to Assess Fluid Responsiveness in Septic Patients on Ventilator