Ultrasound Assessment of Gastric Emptying in Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients

Evaluation of Gastric Emptying and Residual Volume Using Ultrasound in Mechanically Ventilated Intensive Care Patients Receiving Different Enteral Nutrition Solutions

This prospective observational study aims to evaluate dynamic changes in gastric volume and gastric emptying time using bedside gastric ultrasound in mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients. The study compares gastric emptying patterns among patients receiving different types of enteral nutrition solutions as part of routine clinical care.

This prospective observational study is designed to evaluate gastric emptying and changes in gastric volume using bedside gastric ultrasound in mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients. Ultrasound examinations will be performed at predefined time points to assess gastric residual volume and gastric emptying patterns.

Patients receiving different types of enteral nutrition solutions as part of routine clinical care will be evaluated and compared. Gastric measurements will be obtained using standardized ultrasound techniques by trained clinicians.

The study aims to identify differences in gastric emptying dynamics associated with various enteral nutrition formulations and to assess the feasibility of bedside ultrasound as a non-invasive tool for monitoring gastric function in critically ill patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 years or older
• Mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the intensive care unit
• Presence of a nasogastric tube
• Hemodynamically stable patients receiving enteral nutrition as part of routine clinical care

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent abdominal surgery within the first 24 hours
• Major abdominal trauma or burns
• Significant ascites
• Inadequate ultrasound window (e.g., severe meteorism)
• Hemodynamic instability
• Contraindication to enteral nutrition