Liberation from invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) remains a challenge for intensive care physicians. Although standard indices such as blood gases and respiratory clinical data are used routinely but they still have some limitations. Diaphragmatic and lung sonographic parameters (pulmonary scores) recently became the hot spot to help in anticipation of liberation from IMV.The aim of this study was to ensure that, sonographic diaphragmatic thickening indices and lung scores are reliable and accurate additional tools to anticipate successful liberation from IMV in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Methods: This study was a prospective, observational study conducted at Sohag university hospital on 80 patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and mechanically ventilated invasively for more than 24 hours and they were ready for weaning by standard methods. At the time of spontaneous breathing trials (SBT), we did diaphragm and lung ultrasound, where we applied diaphragmatic thickening indices (DTI) and a modified lung ultrasound scores (LUSm). Patients classified into two groups; failed group (FG) and (SG) of liberation from IMV. Comparison between (FG) and (SG) in relation to pulmonary scores (DTI and LUSm) were recorded. Cut-off values, sensitivity and specificity for DTI and LUSm were obtained. Also, comparison between (FG) and (SG) in relation to demographic, clinical and respiratory data were assessed and all data were statistically analysed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Over 18 years of age, more than 24 hours on IMV, and prepared for weaning

Exclusion Criteria:

• A spinal cord injury that exceeded T8, arrhythmias, heart failure, hemodynamic instability, terminal extubation, pregnancy, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, COPD, thoracostomy, chest injuries that impeded ultrasound, pleural lesions, or neuromuscular diseases

80 patients who were admitted to the ICU and on invasive mechanical ventilation for more than 24 hours and ready for weaning