Study of Tongue Ultrasound Features in Children and Adolescents with Obesity During a 30-Week Inpatient Weight Loss Program

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating ultrasound-based tongue markers related to tongue characteristics such as fat accumulation, shape, and mechanical properties in children and adolescents with obesity. This observational study aims to validate these ultrasound markers and examine their relationship with body measurements and obstructive sleep apnea. The study includes both participants with obesity undergoing a weight-loss program and healthy controls. Participants will have tongue ultrasounds using a safe, non-invasive submental approach at the start of the study and after completing a 30-week inpatient multidisciplinary weight-loss rehabilitation program. The program focuses on weight loss and rehabilitation for children and adolescents with obesity. Alongside ultrasound, basic body measurements like height, weight, neck circumference, and hydration status will be recorded. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires about sleep-disordered breathing, and researchers will assess the reliability of ultrasound measurements. Main outcomes include tongue stiffness and imaging biomarkers measured before and after the weight-loss program. The study monitors anthropometric data and sleep-related outcomes, with the total observation spanning the 30-week program and two ultrasound assessments.

Ultrasound Assessment of Tongue Characteristics in Children and Adolescents With Obesity