Expert consensus document: Reporting checklist for quantification of pulmonary congestion by lung ultrasound in heart failure

AbstractLung ultrasound is a useful tool for the assessment of patients with both acute and chronic heart failure, but the use of different image acquisition methods, inconsistent reporting of the technique employed and variable quantification of ‘B‐lines,’ have all made it difficult to compare published reports. We therefore need to ensure that future studies utilizing lung ultrasound in the assessment of heart failure adopt a standardized approach to reporting the quantification of pulmonary congestion. Strategies to improve patient care by use of lung ultrasound in the assessment of heart failure have been difficult to develop. In the present document, key aspects of standardization are discussed, including equipment used, number of chest zones assessed, the method of quantifying B‐lines, the presence and timing of additiona l investigations (e.g. natriuretic peptides and echocardiography) and the impact of therapy. This consensus report includes a checklist to provide standardization in the preparation, review and analysis of manuscripts. This will serve as a guide for investigators and clinicians and enhance the quali ty and transparency of lung ultrasound research.

Source: European Journal of Heart Failure - June 18, 2019 Category: Cardiology Authors: Elke Platz, Pardeep S. Jhund, Nicolas Girerd, Emanuele Pivetta, John J.V. McMurray, W. Frank Peacock, Josep Masip, Francisco Javier Martin ‐Sanchez, Òscar Miró, Susanna Price, Louise Cullen, Alan S. Maisel, Christiaan Vrints, Martin R. Co Tags: Consensus Document Source Type: research