Studies employing this technique have received ethical approval from the Research Ethics Board at the University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
1. Evaluating diaphragm thickness and thickening fraction during tidal breathing
<ol>
	<li>Identifying the diaphragm
	<ol>
		<li>Place the patient in a semi-recumbent position (30°-45° from parallel) on their back. Remove any article of clothing from the right side of the chest. 
		NOTE: A similar procedure may be used to visualize the left hemidiaphragm; the left side is generally more difficult to visualize, and measurement precision is reported to be much lower19.</li>
		<li>Power on the tablet powering the portable ultrasound unit and initiate the appropriate application (see Table of Materials). Initiate a musculoskeletal exam with a high-frequency linear array transducer (minimum of 12 MHz). 
		NOTE: Any ultrasound system may be used to perform this technique.</li>
		<li>Cover the tip of the linear array transducer with a sufficient amount of ultrasound gel and ensure the ultrasound is in B-mode for positioning. Hold the probe by enclosing the tip of the probe with the thumb and index finger (Figure 2A).</li>
		<li>Palpate the chest wall surface to locate the right eighth, ninth, or 10th intercostal spaces between the mid- and anterior axillary lines, as shown in Figure 1C and Figure 2A, and place the probe in the zone of apposition (typically around the eighth intercostal space).</li>
		<li>Angle the transducer in the sagittal plane so that it is situated entirely between the ribs (Figure 2A) and no rib artifacts are visible in the image (Figure 2B). If a rib appears in the image, adjust the angle of the probe by tilting up or down. If a rib is still visible, rotate the probe until only the diaphragm is visible. If visualization of the diaphragm continues to be problematic, slide the probe up or down to a new intercostal space.</li>
		<li>On the ultrasound monitor, identify two bright white parallel lines immediately superior to the liver, indicating the pleural and peritoneal membranes (Figure 2B). The relatively hypoechoic costal diaphragm can be visualized between these lines.</li>
		<li>Adjust the depth of the image by clicking on the increase or decrease depth button to optimize the size of the diaphragm. Ensure the diaphragm is centered on the display monitor. This will ensure maximum resolution of the pleural and peritoneal lines from surrounding structures.</li>
		<li>If the image remains suboptimal (i.e., the lungs or the ribs are visible in the image or the pleural and peritoneal membranes are not clearly visualized), adjust the probe for better visualization by shifting the probe up and down along the rib space, back and forth from the base, or rotate. See Table 1 for examples of common issues in transdiaphragmatic ultrasonography.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Optimizing images
	<ol>
		<li>Once the transducer is in the correct location, optimize the image quality by altering the following components prior to data collection. 
		NOTE: On different ultrasound unit software, there are model and software differences. In this software, we have performed the following button clicks to achieve the goal.</li>
		<li>On the ultrasound unit software, click on the gain button to alter the brightness of the image. Increase the gain by clicking the increase button, to make the image appear brighter. Conversely, click the decrease button to darken the image. If the gain is too low, structures may be difficult to ascertain. If the gain is too high, extraneous echoes can appear and the image will appear too bright.</li>
		<li>If available on the ultrasound unit, click on the focus button to adjust the focus to alter the image quality. Click the increase button to increase the focus or the decrease button to lower the focus.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Acquiring images
	<ol>
		<li>Once placement and image quality have been optimized, place the ultrasound in M-mode by clicking the M-mode button on the ultrasound software.</li>
		<li>A single vertical scan line will appear on the imaging screen. Place the line between the section where the pleural and peritoneal lines are clearest. 
		​NOTE: There may be some variability between ultrasound devices in obtaining M-mode images. Ensure a clear area where well defined pleural and peritoneal membranes are visualized prior to the initiation of M-mode. Place the scan line in a location where pleural and peritoneal membranes are well defined throughout the respiratory cycle and no lungs or ribs enter the field of view.</li>
		<li>Run M-mode over a full cycle of inspiration and expiration during tidal breathing and then click on the freeze and then save buttons to capture the actual state and save the image. If available, adjust the sweep speed by clicking on the sweep speed button to adjust the rate of collection to ensure two respiratory cycles are obtained. Repeat this process to obtain another image.</li>
		<li>With a skin safe marker, mark the location of the probe on the patient's body, to help ensure the exact same position of the diaphragm is measured over time. This is essential to maintain the reproducibility of the measure, as diaphragm thickness varies over its surface area19.</li>
		<li>From these images, the diaphragm thickness (Tdi) and thickening fraction (TFdi) can be measured. If the values from the second M-mode image are not within 10% of the first image, repeat the M-mode image acquisition until two images with a set of values within 10% of each other are obtained. See details on image analysis below.</li>
		<li>Once the exam is complete, click the end exam button on the ultrasound software.</li>
		<li>To export files, click on Export images and ensure the files are exported in DICOM format.</li>
		<li>Wipe the patient's side if there is any remaining gel and sanitize the ultrasound equipment with appropriate disinfectant wipes.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Analyzing images
	<ol>
		<li>Open the necessary DICOM files in MicroDicom DICOM viewer or similar software.</li>
		<li>Click on the "distance" tool (may be called calipers or straight line) and draw a straight line from the inner edge of the pleural membrane to the inner edge of the peritoneal membrane at end expiration (Tdi,ee).</li>
		<li>Ensure both membranes are not included in this measurement and that both ends of the straight line are placed directly across (vertically) from each other such that there is no time difference between the markers, which may artificially increase the distance, as per Figure 2B17.</li>
		<li>Record this value as diaphragm thickness (Tdi,ee).</li>
		<li>Repeat step 4.2 at peak inspiration of the same breath to obtain the diaphragm thickness at peak inspiration (Tdi,pi).</li>
		<li>If the patient does not appear to be breathing, and no diaphragm thickening fraction is evident during inspiration, measure the Tdi,pi at a location representative of diaphragm thickness during the inspiratory phase (in this case, it will be approximately the same as Tdi,ee), as seen in Figure 3.</li>
		<li>Both Tdi,ee and Tdi,pi should be analyzed from the same breath, as seen in Figure 2C, to assess the diaphragm thickening fraction during tidal breathing (TFdi).</li>
		<li>Using Tdi,pi and Tdi,ee, calculate the TFdi for each breath: 
		<img alt="Transformation efficiency calculation formula diagram; TF metric indication in quantitative analysis." src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431eq01.jpg" style="margin: auto;" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Equation 1"></li>
		<li>Obtain a second pair of measurements from the same M-mode image (see Figure 2C).</li>
		<li>Repeat steps 1.4.1-1.4.9 on the second M-mode image. At this point, four measurements of Tdi,ee and four measurements of TFdi have been obtained.</li>
		<li>If the values from the second M-mode image are not within 10% of the first image, repeat the M-mode image acquisition until two images with a set of values within 10% of each other are obtained.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
<img alt="Diaphragm anatomy diagram; features central tendon, crural diaphragm, ultrasound probe placement." class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig01.jpg" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Figure 1"> 
Figure 1: Overview of diaphragm anatomy and placement of ultrasound probe. (A) Anatomical structures for ultrasound of the costal diaphragm. The diaphragm consists of the central tendon, costal diaphragm, and crural diaphragm. (B,C) To visualize the the costal diaphragm at the zone of apposition on ultrasound, the patient is placed in the semirecumbent position and the eighth, ninth, or 10th intercostal space is located. A high frequency (&gt;12 MHz) linear array ultrasound probe is placed parallel to the ribs in the intercostal space along the midaxillary line to visualize the costal diaphragm as a cross-section. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig01large.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
<img alt="Ultrasound imaging; probe application, abdominal scan, results with speed and distance measurements." class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig02v2.jpg" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Figure 2"> 
Figure 2: Ultrasound diaphragm thickness and thickening during tidal breathing. (A) The probe is placed at the eighth, ninth, or 10th intercostal space to visualize the diaphragm as a cross-section. (B) In the B-mode image, the white arrows demonstrate the hyperechoic pleural and peritoneal membranes. (C) The M-mode image projects variation in diaphragm thickness at a particular point over time. From left to right, the yellow lines measure diaphragm thickness at end expiration (Tdi,ee) and diaphragm thickness at peak inspiration (Tdi,pi) of the first breath, and red lines denote that of the second breath. Diaphragm thickness (Tdi,ee) measures 1.20 and 1.25 mm, and TFdi 26% and 23%, respectively, in a healthy male subject. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig02largev2.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>
Table 1: Common issues in transdiaphragmatic ultrasonography <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/65431/Table%201-May%2022%202023.xlsx" target="_blank">Please click here to download this Table.</a>
2. Evaluating the maximal diaphragm thickening fraction
NOTE: The maximal diaphragm thickening fraction may be assessed during the same experimental session as diaphragm thickness.
<ol>
	<li>Acquiring images
	<ol>
		<li>Utilizing the same methodology as described above, identify the diaphragm using the B-mode ultrasound and optimize accordingly.</li>
		<li>In mechanically ventilated patients, ensure that there is adequate respiratory drive for diaphragm functional assessment by measuring the airway occlusion pressure (P0.1) on the ventilator. The P0.1 should be at least 2 cm H2O to proceed. If it is less than 2 cm H2O, consider having sedation or ventilatory support reduced to increase respiratory drive prior to ultrasound imaging.</li>
		<li>Once the respiratory drive is adequate in mechanically ventilated patients, reduce the ventilatory support to a minimum level (e.g., pressure support ventilation (PSV): 0 cm H2O; positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP): 0 cm H2O; modest levels of PSV or PEEP may be maintained if needed for gas exchange) to augment diaphragmatic contractility temporarily. 
		​NOTE: The removal of ventilatory support increases respiratory drive and effort to facilitate the assessment of diaphragm function.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Place the ultrasound into M-mode by clicking the M-mode button.</li>
	<li>While running M-mode, coach the participant to perform a maximal volitional inspiratory effort against a non-occluded airway (i.e., inspiratory capacity maneuver), instructing the participant to "take a big breath in" if able.
	<ol>
		<li>If the patient is unable to follow commands to make maximal inspiratory efforts, apply a brief airway occlusion maneuver (the Marini maneuver)20 for up to 20 s to stimulate increased respiratory effort. Then, release the occlusion and measure the TFdi,max after releasing the occlusion.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Freeze the recording and save the image.</li>
	<li>Repeat steps 2.1-2.4 twice more to obtain a total of three M-mode images for analysis, or until the sonographer is confident that the patient has made maximal volitional efforts.</li>
	<li>Export M-mode images in DICOM format for careful offline blinded analysis.</li>
	<li>Wipe the patient's side to clean any remaining gel and sanitize the ultrasound equipment with appropriate disinfectant wipes.</li>
	<li>Analyzing images
	<ol>
		<li>Open the necessary DICOM files in MicroDicom DICOM viewer or similar software.</li>
		<li>Click on the distance tool (may be called calipers or straight-line) and draw a straight line from the from inner edge of the pleural membrane to the inner edge of the peritoneal membrane at end expiration (Tdi,ee) and peak inspiration (Tdi,pi) during a maximal inspiratory trial, as seen in Figure 3B.</li>
		<li>Ensure all measurements exclude the pleural and peritoneal membranes and both ends of the straight line are placed directly across (vertically) from each other, such that there is no time difference.</li>
		<li>TFdi,max for each breath is computed as: 
		<img alt="TF calculation formula for performance efficiency; equation; scientific analysis." src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431eq02.jpg" style="margin: auto;" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Equation 2"></li>
		<li>Record the highest value of at least three consistent attempts as TFdi,max.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
</ol>
<img alt="Ultrasound image comparison; flow dynamics; duration, distance data; medical imaging analysis." class="xfigimg" src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig03v2.jpg" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Figure 3"> 
Figure 3: Examples of minimal and maximal diaphragm thickening fraction. (A) Ultrasound diaphragm thickness (Tdi) and thickening fraction (TFdi) were measured in the presence of minimal diaphragmatic contraction. If necessary, adjust the sweep speed; two breaths are used to assess for TFdi. In the absence of clear peak inspiratory thickness, the timing of inspiratory effort is determined clinically at the bedside. TFdi here is calculated as 11%, but would be averaged over a further two breaths (total of four breaths captured in two images). (B) Maximal diaphragm thickening fraction measured during maximal inspiratory efforts (TFdi,max) is stimulated either by coaching the patient to make maximal volitional efforts, or following a Marini mauver if the patient is unable to be coached and there is a P0.1 &gt;2 cm H2O. TFdi,max is calculated here as 208%, however the largest value obtained after several (at least three) attempts would be recorded as the TFdi,max. There are pronounced difference in TFdi and Tdi during a maximal inspiration (B) compared to a minimal inspiratory effort (A). <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431fig03largev2.jpg" target="_blank">Please click here to view a larger version of this figure.</a>

Ultrasound in Evaluating Diaphragm Dysfunction and Monitoring Treatment

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A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diaphragm+ultrasound+as+a+new+method+to+predict+extubation+outcome+in+mechanically+ventilated+patients.">Diaphragm ultrasound as a new method to predict extubation outcome in mechanically ventilated patients.</a> Australian Critical Care. 30 (1), 37-43 (2017).</li><li>Vivier, E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diaphragm+ultrasonography+to+estimate+the+work+of+breathing+during+non-invasive+ventilation.">Diaphragm ultrasonography to estimate the work of breathing during non-invasive ventilation.</a> Intensive Care Medicine. 38 (5), 796-803 (2012).</li><li>Pirompanich, P., Romsaiyut, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Use+of+diaphragm+thickening+fraction+combined+with+rapid+shallow+breathing+index+for+predicting+success+of+weaning+from+mechanical+ventilator+in+medical+patients.">Use of diaphragm thickening fraction combined with rapid shallow breathing index for predicting success of weaning from mechanical ventilator in medical patients.</a> Journal of Intensive Care. 6, 6 (2018).</li><li>Scarlata, S., Mancini, D., Laudisio, A., Raffaele, A. 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M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Association+of+diaphragm+thickness+and+echogenicity+with+age,+sex,+and+body+mass+index+in+healthy+subjects.">Association of diaphragm thickness and echogenicity with age, sex, and body mass index in healthy subjects.</a> Muscle &amp; Nerve. 66 (2), 197-202 (2022).</li><li>Ferrari, G., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diaphragm+ultrasound+as+a+new+index+of+discontinuation+from+mechanical+ventilation.">Diaphragm ultrasound as a new index of discontinuation from mechanical ventilation.</a> Critical Ultrasound Journal. 6 (1), 8 (2014).</li><li>Cattapan, S. E., Laghi, F., Tobin, M. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Can+diaphragmatic+contractility+be+assessed+by+airway+twitch+pressure+in+mechanically+ventilated+patients.">Can diaphragmatic contractility be assessed by airway twitch pressure in mechanically ventilated patients.</a> Thorax. 58 (1), 58-62 (2003).</li><li>Drakonaki, E. E., Allen, G. M., Wilson, D. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Ultrasound+elastography+for+musculoskeletal+applications.">Ultrasound elastography for musculoskeletal applications.</a> The British Journal of Radiology. 85 (1019), 1435-1445 (2012).</li><li>&#350;endur, H. N., Cerit, M. N., &#350;endur, A. B., &#214;zhan Oktar, S., Y&#252;cel, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Evaluation+of+diaphragm+thickness+and+stiffness+using+ultrasound+and+shear-wave+elastography.">Evaluation of diaphragm thickness and stiffness using ultrasound and shear-wave elastography.</a> Ultrasound Quarterly. 38 (1), 89-93 (2022).</li><li>Tuinman, P. R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Respiratory+muscle+ultrasonography:+methodology,+basic+and+advanced+principles+and+clinical+applications+in+ICU+and+ED+patients-a+narrative+review.">Respiratory muscle ultrasonography: methodology, basic and advanced principles and clinical applications in ICU and ED patients-a narrative review.</a> Intensive Care Medicine. 46 (4), 594-605 (2020).</li><li>Bachasson, D., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diaphragm+shear+modulus+reflects+transdiaphragmatic+pressure+during+isovolumetric+inspiratory+efforts+and+ventilation+against+inspiratory+loading.">Diaphragm shear modulus reflects transdiaphragmatic pressure during isovolumetric inspiratory efforts and ventilation against inspiratory loading.</a> Journal of Applied Physiology. 126 (3), 699-707 (2019).</li><li>Foss&#233;, Q., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Ultrasound+shear+wave+elastography+for+assessing+diaphragm+function+in+mechanically+ventilated+patients:+a+breath-by-breath+analysis.">Ultrasound shear wave elastography for assessing diaphragm function in mechanically ventilated patients: a breath-by-breath analysis.</a> Critical Care. 24 (1), 669 (2020).</li></ol>

The authors have nothing to disclose.

Diaphragm ultrasound provides a noninvasive, reliable, and valid technique to monitor diaphragm structure and function in healthy subjects and critically ill patients. Diaphragm thickening fraction provides a bedside measure of diaphragm contractile activity and function that is much more feasible than magnetic twitch transdiaphragmatic pressure measurements, the traditional gold standard method for evaluating diaphragm function33. Monitoring diaphragm function and thickness by point-of-care ultrasound provides a means of detecting diaphragm atrophy. As such, experts recommend a minimum of 15 separate transdiaphragmatic ultrasounds be performed and analyzed to develop competency17.
To ensure reproducible and precise measurements, it is imperative to mark probe placement19. The B-mode image should be optimized by adjusting the probe placement, as well as the depth, gain, and focus of the instrument. The sweep speed of the ultrasound used should be adjusted to obtain a minimum of two breaths within a captured image if possible. Lastly, measurements should be repeated until consistent values (within 10%) are obtained.
Some of the difficulties associated with obtaining Tdi and TFdi are the placement and orientation of the linear probe. Table 1 highlights some common scenarios and the associated troubleshooting measures users should undertake.
Some limitations of this ultrasound technique need to be noted. First, diaphragm thickness varies widely between patients, and changes in thickness over time need to be referenced to the baseline value (for example, to diagnose atrophy). Second, despite the simplicity of the technique, training is required to ensure competency. A web-based online training platform has been validated to achieve competency in the technique18. Third, the ultrasound technique described provides limited data on muscle structure (mass) and function (contractility). New techniques, such as shear ultrasonography and ultrasound elastography, can provide additional information concerning muscle stiffness and fibrosis34,35,36,37,38.
In summary, transdiaphragmatic ultrasonography provides key measures of diaphragm structure and function that can easily be performed in healthy and critically ill patients. This technique is reliable and valid, considering a competent user with sufficient training. This article outlines how to perform transdiaphragmatic ultrasound and cautions users to undergo sufficient training before data acquisition.

Ultrasound refers to sound waves beyond the upper audible limits of human hearing. Ultrasound has many applications beyond healthcare, the most famous likely being the development of SONAR (sound navigation and ranging) for military use in World War I1; ultrasound is now routinely used in medical diagnosis and therapy. Medical sonography or diagnostic ultrasound utilizes high frequency sound waves (&#62;20 kHz) to provide images of soft tissue structures within the body. These sound waves are pulsed at frequencies of 1 to 20 million cycles/s (megahertz, MHz), which can be transmitted into the body to examine anatomical structures, such as the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle. Point-of-care ultrasound is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of the evaluation and management of critical illness.
The first application of ultrasound in medicine was in the 1940&#39;s by Dr. Karl Dussik, who attempted to locate brain tumors by measuring the transmission of ultrasound beams through the head2. As technology progressed, new techniques were developed, including amplitude mode (A-mode) and brightness mode (B-mode)3, followed by the development of two-dimensional scanners in 19604,5. The field of diagnostic ultrasound has become invaluable in clinical practice, since it avoids exposure to ionizing radiation and can be obtained at the bedside, avoiding the need for in-hospital transport with associated risks. Ultrasound is safe, well-tolerated, reliable, and repeatable in patients6,7.
The diaphragm is a thin, dome-shaped muscular structure that acts as the main respiratory pump driving spontaneous ventilation in humans. The diaphragm separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities and is composed of three separate segments: the central tendon, the costal diaphragm, and the crural diaphragm (Figure 1). The central tendon of the diaphragm is a noncontractile structure that allows major bloods vessels to pass through from the thoracic to the abdominal cavity. The costal diaphragm has fibers running from the rib cage or xiphoid process to the central tendon. The crural diaphragm inserts into the first three lumbar vertebrate. During inspiration, the costal diaphragm contracts, lowering the dome of the diaphragm while expanding the lower rib cage. The costal diaphragm supports the crural diaphragm in the lowering the dome8,9,10.
Transthoracic ultrasound of the diaphragm has gained increasing attention for its ability to monitor diaphragm thickness at the zone of apposition (Figure 1)11,12,13. The diaphragm was first visualized with ultrasound in 1975 by Haber et al.14. Diaphragm contractility and muscular shortening during inspiration can be quantified using M-mode ultrasound to monitor the diaphragm thickness (Tdi) and thickening fraction (TFdi). This assessment of contractility provides a measure of diaphragm muscular performance under a given level of inspiratory drive and effort. Point-of-care ultrasound provides safe, repeatable, and reliable measures of diaphragm function and architecture. In mechanically ventilated patients, changes in diaphragm thickness over time can be used to evaluate the negative impacts of mechanical ventilation, including the effects of myotrauma due to over-assistance (atrophy; decreasing end-expiratory thickness over time) or under-assistance (load-induced injury resulting in inflammation, edema; possibly represented by increasing end-expiratory thickness over time)15. These changes are correlated with adverse clinical outcomes16. Measuring TFdi during tidal breathing permits an assessment of tidal diaphragmatic activity (i.e., inspiratory effort). Measuring TFdi during a maximal inspiratory effort (TFdi,max) provides an assessment of diaphragm strength (since the diaphragm&#39;s force-generating capacity is related to its ability to contract and shorten).
There is substantial consensus on the optimal protocol for acquiring and analyzing measurements17. Competency in diaphragm ultrasound imaging involves a moderately steep learning curve; thorough training in the technique and its potential pitfalls is essential. Studies have shown that proficiency in diaphragm ultrasound expertise can be acquired in a short period of time through remote, web-based training18. Therefore, this protocol has been optimized to provide a consistent measurement of diaphragm thickness and thickening fraction that can be applied to both healthy and patients with suspected respiratory pathology19

<table><tbody><tr><td>10-15 MHz linear array transducer&amp;nbsp;</td><td>Philips</td><td>L12-4</td><td>Any 10-15MHz linear array transducer may be used</td></tr><tr><td>Any DICOM viewer software&amp;nbsp; Example: MicroDicom DICOM viewer</td><td>MicroDicom</td><td></td><td>Free for non-commerical use analysis software: https://www.microdicom.com/company.html</td></tr><tr><td>Lumify Ultrasound Application</td><td>Philips&amp;nbsp;</td><td></td><td>Other systems will use their own software</td></tr><tr><td>Lumify Ultrasound System</td><td>Philips</td><td></td><td>Any ultrasound system may be used</td></tr><tr><td>Skin Safe Marker&amp;nbsp;</td><td>Viscot</td><td>1450XL</td><td>Used for marking location of probe</td></tr><tr><td>Ultrasound Gel</td><td>Wavelength&amp;nbsp;</td><td>NTPC201X&amp;nbsp;</td><td>Any ultrasound gel may be used</td></tr></tbody></table>

measuring diaphragm thickness and function using point-of-care ultrasound

The diaphragm is the main component of the respiratory muscle pump. Diaphragm dysfunction can cause dyspnea and exercise intolerance, and predisposes affected individuals to respiratory failure. In mechanically ventilated patients, the diaphragm is susceptible to atrophy and dysfunction through disuse and other mechanisms. This contributes to failure to wean and poor long-term clinical outcomes. Point-of-care ultrasound provides a valid and reproducible method for evaluating diaphragm thickness and contractile activity (thickening fraction during inspiration) that can be readily employed by clinicians and researchers alike. This article presents best practices for measuring diaphragm thickness and quantifying diaphragm thickening during tidal breathing or maximal inspiration. Once mastered, this technique can be used to diagnose and prognosticate diaphragm dysfunction, and guide and monitor response to treatment over time in both healthy individuals and acute or chronically ill patients.

Following this protocol, diaphragm thickness and thickening fraction can be measured as noninvasive and reproducible means of evaluating diaphragm structure and function. Measurements can be made at the bedside and saved for blinded offline analysis. These measures can be obtained repeatedly over time to assess changes in diaphragm structure and function longitudinally.
In healthy adults, resting end-expiratory diaphragm thickness can range from 1.5 mm to 5.0 mm, depending on height, sex, and, probe position21. In healthy adults breathing at rest, tidal TFdi typically ranges between 15%-30%. During maximal inspiratory efforts, TFdi,max typically ranges between 30% and 130%13,21,22. Maximal TFdi &lt;20% is diagnostic for severe diaphragm dysfunction13,21. Table 2 summarizes healthy and critically ill diaphragm thickness and thickening fraction.
Table 2: Reference values for diaphragm thickness and thickening fraction11,13,19,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32. <a href="https://www.jove.com/files/ftp_upload/65431/Table%202-May%2022%202023.xlsx" target="_blank">Please click here to download this Table.</a>
In critically ill patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation, baseline diaphragm thickness measured at the outset of respiratory failure is correlated to clinical outcome (higher baseline Tdi predicts lower mortality and faster liberation from mechanical ventilation). In these patients, the subsequent evolution of Tdi over time varies widely between patients. About 40%-50% of patients develop atrophy (a decrease in Tdi from baseline by more than 10%) within the first week of mechanical ventilation15. A small subset of patients exhibit a rapid early increase in Tdi exceeding 10% of baseline, possibly indicative of injury, inflammation, or edema in the muscle (but not muscle hypertrophy, since hypertrophy takes weeks to occur). TFdi,max &lt;30% predicts a higher risk of failed weaning from mechanical ventilation23.
In the example shown in Figure 2A, diaphragm thickness in the first breath (in yellow) was 1.20 mm at end expiration and 1.51 mm at peak inspiration. The thickening fraction can then be calculated using the formula below and expressed as a percentage. 
<img alt="TF_di calculation, symbol equation for process efficiency, educational formula visualization." src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431eq03.jpg" style="margin: auto;" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Equation 3"> 
<img alt="Static equilibrium formula, TF_di calculation equation for educational research." src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431eq04.jpg" style="margin: auto;" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Equation 4"> 
<img alt="Equation showing static equilibrium with symbol \( T_{Fdi} = 26\% \)." src="/files/ftp_upload/65431/65431eq05.jpg" style="margin: auto;" data-altupdatedat="1747911167000" data-alt="Equation 5">

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Unraveling the Impact of Mechanical Ventilation on Diaphragm Function and Patient Outcomes at JoVE.com

Author Spotlight: Unraveling the Impact of Mechanical Ventilation on Diaphragm Function and Patient Outcomes 

Diaphragm thickness and function can be assessed in healthy individuals and critically ill patients using point-of-care ultrasound. This technique offers an accurate, reproducible, feasible, and well-tolerated method for evaluating diaphragm structure and function.

Measuring Diaphragm Thickness and Function Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound

The diaphragm is the main component of the respiratory muscle pump. Diaphragm dysfunction can cause dyspnea and exercise intolerance, and predisposes ...

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5.6K Views.  Toronto General Hospital Research Institute. Diaphragm thickness and function can be assessed in healthy individuals and critically ill patients using point-of-care ultrasound. This technique offers an accurate, reproducible, feasible, and well-tolerated method for evaluating diaphragm structure and function. 

Video: Author Spotlight: Unraveling the Impact of Mechanical Ventilation on Diaphragm Function and Patient Outcomes 

Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging of Mouse Diaphragm Function

Function analysis of rodent respiratory skeletal muscles, particularly the diaphragm, is commonly performed by isolating muscle strips using invasive surgical procedures. Although this is an effective method of assessing in vitro diaphragm activity, it involves non-survival surgery. The application of non-invasive ultrasound imaging as an in vivo procedure is beneficial since it not only reduces the number of animals sacrificed, but is also suitable for monitoring disease progression in live mice. Thus, our ultrasound imaging method may likely assist in the development of novel therapies that alleviate muscle injury induced by various respiratory diseases. Particularly, in clinical diagnoses of obstructive lung diseases, ultrasound imaging has the potential to be used in conjunction with other standard tests to detect the early onset of diaphragm muscle fatigue. In the current protocol, we describe how to accurately evaluate diaphragm contractility in a mouse model using a diagnostic ultrasound imaging technique.

Diagnostic ultrasound imaging has proven to be effective in diagnosing various respiratory diseases in human and animal subjects. We demonstrate a comprehensive ultrasound protocol utilized by Dr. Zuo's lab to analyze diaphragm kinetics specifically in mouse models. This is also a non-invasive research technique which can provide quantitative information on mouse respiratory muscle function.

Function analysis of rodent respiratory skeletal muscles, particularly the diaphragm, is commonly performed by isolating muscle strips using invasive ...

Protocol and Guidelines for Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Diagnosing Neonatal Pulmonary Diseases Based on International Expert Consensus

Ultrasound is a safe bedside imaging tool that obviates the use of ionizing radiation diagnostic procedures. Due to its convenience, the lung ultrasound has received increasing attention from neonatal physicians. Nevertheless, clear reference standards and guideline limits are needed for accurate application of this diagnostic modality. This document aims to summarize expert opinions and to provide precise guidance to help facilitate the use of the lung ultrasound in the diagnosis of neonatal lung diseases.

Lung ultrasound is a noninvasive and valuable tool for bedside evaluation of neonatal lung diseases. However, a relative lack of reference standards, protocols and guidelines may limit its application. Here, we aim to develop a standardized neonatal lung ultrasound diagnostic protocol to be used in clinical decision-making.

Ultrasound is a safe bedside imaging tool that obviates the use of ionizing radiation diagnostic procedures. Due to its convenience, the lung ultrasound ...

Evaluation of a Point-of-Care Testing Analyzer for Measuring Peripheral Blood Leukocytes

White blood cell (WBC) is an important indicator of inflammation in the body, and it can help distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. At present, most primary medical institutions in China have a poor percentage of adoption of blood-testing technology, and a hematology detection system with a high price to performance ratio and easy operation is urgently needed in primary healthcare centers. This paper introduces the principle and operation procedures of a point-of-care testing (POCT) card-based leukocyte analyzer (evaluated system), which was used to detect WBC indexes such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and intermediate group cells (including eosinophils, basophils, and monocytes) in whole blood. The results from the evaluated system were compared to those from two commercial automatic hematology analyzers (reference system). The correlation and consistency between the evaluated system and the commercial reference systems were analyzed. The results showed that WBC count and number of granulocytes detected by the evaluated and reference systems showed a strong positive correlation (rs = 0.972 and 0.973, respectively), while the number of lymphocytes showed a relatively low correlation (rs = 0.851). A Bland-Altman plot showed that the major difference between the values detected by the evaluated system and the reference systems is within 95% limits of agreement (LoA), indicating that the two systems are in good agreement. In conclusion, the evaluated system has an excellent correlation, robust consistency, and a reliable comparison with the results of the widely used automatic hematology analyzers. It is ideal for WBC detection in primary medical institutions where a full-automatic five-category hematology analyzer is unavailable, especially during the COVID-19 normalized prevention and control period.

A protocol to measure peripheral blood leukocytes using a POCT card-based leukocyte analyzer is presented here. Same blood samples were tested by two automated hematology analyzers to evaluate the consistency and accuracy of the results. The results showed that the evaluated analyzer had a good correlation with the reference system.

White blood cell (WBC) is an important indicator of inflammation in the body, and it can help distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. At ...

Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis

Acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a serious vascular disorder that requires accurate and early diagnosis to prevent life-threatening sequelae. While whole leg compression ultrasound with color and spectral Doppler is commonly performed in radiology and vascular labs, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is becoming more common in the acute care setting. Providers appropriately trained in focused POCUS can perform a rapid bedside examination with high sensitivity and specificity in critically ill patients. This paper describes a simplified yet validated approach to POCUS by describing a three-zone protocol for lower extremity DVT POCUS image acquisition. The protocol explains the steps in obtaining vascular images at six compression points in the lower extremity. Beginning at the level of the proximal thigh and moving distally to the popliteal space, the protocol guides the user through each of the compression points in a stepwise manner: from the common femoral vein to the femoral and deep femoral vein bifurcation, and, finally, to the popliteal vein. Further, a visual aid is provided that may assist providers during real-time image acquisition. The goal in presenting this protocol is to help make proximal lower extremity DVT exams more accessible and efficient for POCUS users at the patient&#39;s bedside.

Traditionally, lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is diagnosed by radiology-performed venous duplex ultrasound. Providers appropriately trained in focused point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can perform a rapid bedside examination with high sensitivity and specificity in critically ill patients. We describe the scanning technique for focused POCUS DVT lower extremity examination.

Acute lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a serious vascular disorder that requires accurate and early diagnosis to prevent life-threatening ...

Point-of-Care Lung Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition

Consultative ultrasound performed by radiologists has traditionally not been used for imaging the lungs, as the lungs&#39; air-filled nature normally prevents direct visualization of the lung parenchyma. When showing the lung parenchyma, ultrasound typically generates a number of non-anatomic artifacts. However, over the past several decades, these artifacts have been studied by diagnostic point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) practitioners, who have identified findings that have value in narrowing the differential diagnoses of cardiopulmonary dysfunction. For instance, in patients presenting with dyspnea, lung POCUS is superior to chest radiography (CXR) for the diagnosis of pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, lung consolidations, and pleural effusions. Despite its known diagnostic value, the utilization of lung POCUS in clinical medicine remains variable, in part because training in this modality across hospitals remains inconsistent. To address this educational gap, this narrative review describes lung POCUS image acquisition in adults, including patient positioning, transducer selection, probe placement, acquisition sequence, and image optimization.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) of the lungs provides quick answers in rapidly changing clinical scenarios. We present an efficient and informative protocol for image acquisition for use in acute care settings.

Consultative ultrasound performed by radiologists has traditionally not been used for imaging the lungs, as the lungs&#39; air-filled nature normally ...

Point-of-Care Ultrasound: A Review of Ultrasound Parameters for Predicting Difficult Airways

Airway management remains a crucial part of perioperative care. The conventional approach to assessing potentially difficult airways emphasizes the LEMON method, which looks for and evaluates the Mallampati classification, signs of obstruction, and neck mobility. Clinical findings help predict a higher likelihood of difficult tracheal intubation, but no clinical result reliably excludes difficult intubation. Ultrasound as an adjunct to clinical examination can provide the clinician with a dynamic anatomical airway assessment, which is impossible with clinical examination alone. In the hands of anesthesiologists, ultrasound is becoming more popular in the perioperative period. This method is particularly applicable for identifying proper endotracheal tube positioning in specific patient populations, such as those who are morbidly obese and patients with head and neck cancer or trauma. The focus is on identifying the normal anatomy, correctly positioning the endotracheal tube, and refining the parameters that predict difficult intubation. Several ultrasound measurements are clinical indicators of difficult direct laryngoscopy in the literature. A meta-analysis revealed that the distance from the skin to the epiglottis (DSE) is most associated with a difficult laryngoscopy. An ultrasound of the airway could be applied in routine practice as an adjunct to the clinical examination. A full stomach, rapid sequence intubation, gross visual anatomical abnormalities, and restricted neck flexibility prevent using ultrasound to assess the airway. The airway evaluation is performed with a linear array transducer of 12-4 MHz, with the patient in the supine position, with no pillow, and with the head and neck in a neutral position. The central axis of the neck is where the ultrasound parameters are measured. These image acquisitions guide the standard ultrasound examination of the airway.

A point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a simple, non-invasive, and portable tool that enables dynamic airway assessment. Several studies have attempted to determine the role of ultrasound parameters as an adjunct to clinical examination in predicting difficult laryngoscopies.

Airway management remains a crucial part of perioperative care. The conventional approach to assessing potentially difficult airways emphasizes the LEMON ...

Optic Nerve Sheath Point of Care Ultrasound: Image Acquisition

The goal of this protocol is to develop a standardized method for acquiring images of the optic nerve sheath and measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). Diagnostic ultrasound of the ONSD to detect intracranial hypertension has traditionally faced many problems because of methodologic discrepancies. Due to inconsistencies in the measuring techniques, the potential for ONSD to become a non-invasive bedside monitoring tool for ICP has been hampered. However, establishing a transparent, consistent methodology for measuring the ONSD would support its use as a valid and reliable method of identifying intracranial hypertension. This is important as it has both high sensitivity and specificity in acute care settings. This narrative review describes ONSD POCUS image acquisition, including patient positioning, transducer selection, probe placement, the acquisition sequence, and image optimization. Further, visual aids are provided to assist in real-time during image acquisition. This method should be considered for patients for whom there are concerns regarding intracranial hypertension but who do not have an intracranial monitor in place.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) has been shown to be useful in identifying patients with increased intracranial pressure (ICP). However, the non-standardized technique for this POCUS has hampered its use. We present a standardized image acquisition protocol for use in the acute care setting.

The goal of this protocol is to develop a standardized method for acquiring images of the optic nerve sheath and measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter ...

Imaging the Abdominal Aorta with Point-of-Care Ultrasound

An Approach to Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta

Disorders of the abdominal aorta, including aneurysms and dissection, have potentially high rates of morbidity and mortality. While computed tomography (CT) is the current gold standard to image the abdominal aorta, the process of obtaining a CT may be time-consuming, requires the use of intravenous contrast dye, and involves exposure to ionizing radiation. Point-of-care Ultrasound (POCUS) can be performed at the bedside and has excellent sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm and excellent specificity for the diagnosis of abdominal aortic dissection. Additionally, POCUS is non-invasive, cost-effective, lacks ionizing radiation, requires no intravenous contrast dye, and can be performed without taking the patient from a critical care area. Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) can be done in primary care settings as well. 
This article will review the approach to POCUS of the abdominal aorta to evaluate such critical pathology. In this paper, we will review the sonographic anatomy of the abdominal aorta as well as the choice of the ultrasound probe, description of POCUS image acquisition, and some pearls and pitfalls of using POCUS to aid in the diagnosis of potentially life-threatening abdominal aortic pathology.

Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta

This protocol reviews the steps to image the abdominal aorta with point-of-care ultrasound. We discuss image acquisition, troubleshooting imaging pitfalls and artifacts, and the recognition of life-threatening abdominal aortic pathology.

Disorders of the abdominal aorta, including aneurysms and dissection, have potentially high rates of morbidity and mortality. While computed tomography ...

Ultrasound Protocol for Perioperative Frailty Assessment

Identifying Frailty Using Point-of-Care Ultrasonography: Image Acquisition and Assessment

Frailty is a significant predictor of a range of adverse outcomes in surgical patients, including increased mechanical ventilation time, longer hospital stays, unplanned readmissions, stroke, delirium, and death. However, accessible tools for screening in clinical settings are limited. Computed tomography of the psoas muscle is the current standard imaging device for measuring frailty, but it is expensive, time-consuming, and exposes the patient to ionizing radiation. Recently, the use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has emerged as a potential tool to determine the presence of frailty and has been shown to accurately predict frailty and postoperative outcomes. In this article, we will describe the image acquisition of the quadriceps muscles and explain how they can be used to determine frailty and predict postoperative adverse events. We will present information on probe selection, patient positioning, and troubleshooting. Images from a demonstration will be used to present the POCUS technique and example results. The article will culminate in a discussion of the use of these images in medical decision-making and potential limitations.

Author Spotlight: Assessing Surgical Frailty with Point-of-Care Ultrasound of Quadriceps Muscles

Here, we present a protocol to assess frailty in the perioperative setting using point-of-care ultrasound to measure quadriceps thickness. This method offers a practical, non-invasive alternative to traditional assessment methods, potentially enhancing perioperative care by quickly identifying frail patients.

Frailty is a significant predictor of a range of adverse outcomes in surgical patients, including increased mechanical ventilation time, longer hospital ...

Diaphragmatic Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation

Diaphragm dysfunction is a widely recognized concern across numerous medical specialties and clinical settings. Timely and accurate assessment of the diaphragm is vital not only in critically ill patients, where it has a role in weaning from mechanical ventilation&#160;and respiratory outcomes, but also in the perioperative arena as a diagnostic tool to detect phrenic nerve function. Diaphragmatic assessment has traditionally utilized fluoroscopy and nerve studies that are time-consuming, costly, and non-portable. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) overcomes these barriers and can be used as a tool for non-invasive screening of diaphragm function. However, POCUS for diaphragmatic dysfunction currently suffers from several issues such as a lack of consensus guidelines, a multiplicity of protocols, and poor interoperator reliability among existing protocols, most notably with the assessment of dome of diaphragm excursion and diaphragmatic thickening. To address these issues, this manuscript reviews the available literature on diaphragmatic POCUS and identifies an image acquisition technique that is both simple to perform and has high interoperator reliability. This technique first describes a qualitative evaluation of diaphragm excursion, followed by a quantitative assessment of the excursion of the zone of apposition. The technique is described stepwise along with all the following: patient positioning, transducer selection, probe placement, image optimization, and interpretation.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is an essential technique for screening for diaphragmatic dysfunction due to its portability, non-invasiveness, and real-time imaging capabilities. Although current diaphragmatic POCUS protocols exist, they suffer from poor interoperator reliability and lack consensus guidelines. Here we describe a technique that is reproducible and simple to perform.

Diaphragm dysfunction is a widely recognized concern across numerous medical specialties and clinical settings. Timely and accurate assessment of the ...