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Diaphragmatic Ultrasound in Adults: Image Acquisition and Interpretation
Published on: January 31, 2025
Diaphragmatic motion studied by m-mode ultrasonography: methods, reproducibility, and normal values
Alain Boussuges1, Yoann Gole1, Philippe Blanc1
1UMR MD 2, P2COE, Physiologie et Physiopathologie en conditions d'oxygénation extrêemes, Université de la Méditerranée et Institut de Médecine Navale du Service de Santé des Armées, Marseille, France.
Chest
|November 20, 2008
Summary
M-mode ultrasonography provides reproducible measurements of diaphragmatic motion. This study establishes reference values for diaphragmatic excursions in healthy adults, considering gender differences.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pulmonology
- Diagnostic Ultrasound
Background:
- Diaphragmatic motion assessment via ultrasonography lacks standardized protocols.
- Establishing reference values for diaphragmatic motion is crucial for clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine reference values for diaphragmatic motion using M-mode ultrasonography.
- To assess the reproducibility of M-mode ultrasonography for diaphragmatic movement measurement.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 210 healthy adults (150 men, 60 women).
- M-mode ultrasonography used to measure diaphragmatic excursions during quiet, voluntary sniffing, and deep breathing.
- Inter- and intra-observer reproducibility of measurements was evaluated.
Main Results:
- M-mode ultrasonography successfully assessed diaphragmatic motion in most subjects across different breathing maneuvers.
- Normal values for diaphragmatic excursions were determined, with larger excursions observed in men than women.
- Gender-specific lower limit values for diaphragmatic excursions ranged from 0.9 cm to 4.7 cm depending on breathing condition.
Conclusions:
- M-mode ultrasonography is a reproducible and reliable method for evaluating hemidiaphragmatic movement.
- Reference values established in this study can aid in the clinical interpretation of diaphragmatic motion.
