Validation of Bedside Ultrasound to Predict Body Composition in Non- and Critically Ill Patients

Validation of Bedside Ultrasound to Predict Body Composition in Non- and Critically Ill Patients: The USVALID Prospective Study

The prospective study will include 200 patients and 50 critically ill patients, who had an abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan including the L3 level for any clinical reason. Ultrasound scans of the anterior thighs and forearms will be taken after the CT scan within 48 hours. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) will also be performed. In addition muscle strength, mobility, physical function and nutrition will be assessed. Primary outcome is the prediction of CT-based whole body muscle and fat volume and BIA-based fat and lean body mass from ultrasound-based muscle and fat thickness. Other secondary outcomes include the intra- and interrater reliability of the CT evaluation and ultrasound examination of muscle and fat mass. The relationship between clinical aspects (strength, mobility, physical function, nutrition) and whole body composition is another secondary outcome.

Inclusion Criteria:

• cross-sectional abdominal CT scan including the level of L3 vertebra for any clinical reason
• study-related ultrasound examination must take place within 48 hours of CT

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients younger than 18 years