Comparing diaphragm activity during different mechanical ventilation methods

Estimation of the Diaphragm Electrical Activity and Intercostal Thickening Fraction During Different Pattern of Mechanical Ventilation: PSV Versus NAVA

Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS · NCT05990348

This study is testing how well two different types of breathing support help patients who are having trouble getting off mechanical ventilation by looking at their diaphragm and chest muscle activity.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorFondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS (other)
Locations1 site (Rome)
Trial IDNCT05990348 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate diaphragm electrical activity and intercostal muscle thickening in patients experiencing difficult weaning from mechanical ventilation. It compares two ventilation modalities: Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NAVA) and Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV). The study focuses on patients who have failed at least one weaning attempt and have been on mechanical ventilation for a minimum of 24 hours. By using non-invasive echography to assess muscle function, the study seeks to provide insights into the effectiveness of these ventilation strategies in preserving respiratory muscle function.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are critically ill patients who have failed at least one attempt to wean off mechanical ventilation.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, obese, or have neuromuscular diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve the weaning process from mechanical ventilation, potentially reducing the duration of ventilation and associated complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with NAVA in reducing weaning failure, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* patients who have failed at least one weaning attempt
* mechanical ventilation for at least 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy
* Obesity (Body Mass Index \> 35 kg/m2)
* Contraindication to the insert of a nasogastric tube
* Neuromuscular diseases

Where this trial is running

Rome

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Respiratory Failure, Weaning Failure

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.