Change In Diaphragmatic Thickness Predicts Extubation Success

Can the Diaphragm Predict the Course of Mechanical Ventilation? A Prospective Study Evaluating Several M-Mode Ultrasound Measured Diaphragmatic Parameters and Their Effects on Weaning From Mechanical Ventilation

We will investigate whether measurement of the change in thickness of the diaphragm during the respiratory cycle by ultrasound can predict extubation success in a 48 hour window. We will also asses whether this is only possible on low levels of pressure support as has been shown previously, or if this technique retains its predictive power at higher levels of pressure support.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age greater than 18, ventilated for >24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

• already chronically on mechanical ventilatory support, already has tracheostomy, has pathology that obscures visualization of the right hemidiaphragm, has acute stroke either hemorrhagic or ischemic, cannot identify appropriate decision maker to get informed consent.