Evaluation of diaphragm thickening by diaphragm ultrasonography: a reproducibility and a repeatability study

ConclusionsThe results of our study have shown that diaphragm ultrasound is repeatable and reproducible when carried out by a radiologist or an intensivist with a basic curriculum in ultrasonography. The method is more accurate when using the M-mode for less experienced operators, and in this case, repeatability and reproducibility are not sufficient to make clinical decisions. No TF value lower than 36% was obtained using both techniques. This suggests the existence of a cut-off value that could be used as an initial tool to discriminate healthy subjects from those affected by diaphragmatic dysfunction.Clinical trial registrationEUDRACT 2015-004635-12.
Source: Journal of Ultrasound - Category: Radiology Source Type: research