Examining the link between ultrasound grading and kidney injury in ICU patients

The Association Between Venous Excess Ultrasound, the Lung Ultrasound Score and Acute Kidney Injury and Death in the Intensive Care Unit Population

Observational Academisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) · NCT06585722

This study is trying to see if a special ultrasound method can help doctors identify ICU patients at risk of kidney injury from too much fluid.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment136 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAcademisch Medisch Centrum - Universiteit van Amsterdam (AMC-UvA) Academic / other
Locations1 site (Amsterdam, North Holland)
Trial IDNCT06585722 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the relationship between the venous excess ultrasound grading system (VExUS) and important patient outcomes, including acute kidney injury, mortality, and length of stay in ICU patients. By assessing fluid overload through VExUS, the study seeks to identify patients who may be at risk from excessive fluid administration. Additionally, a secondary analysis will investigate the correlation between VExUS and lung ultrasound scores. The findings could provide valuable insights into managing fluid therapy in critically ill patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are ICU patients aged 18 years or older who are expected to remain in the ICU for more than 24 hours.

Not a fit: Patients with specific medical histories, such as major cardiac shunts or those who have undergone kidney or liver transplants, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the management of fluid therapy in ICU patients, potentially reducing the incidence of acute kidney injury and improving overall outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ultrasound in assessing fluid status is gaining traction, the specific application of VExUS in relation to patient outcomes in the ICU is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* all patients admitted to the ICU 18 years or older expected to stay in the ICU for more than 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

* any obstruction between the righ atrium and structures assessed by VExUS
* a medical history of: Major cardiac shunts (e.g. atrial septum defect), Tricuspid regurgitation, dialysis, portal hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, interstitial lung disease, recipients of a kidney of liver transplant.
* patients in whom an ultrasound assesment is unfeasible e.g. a BMI over 40

Where this trial is running

Amsterdam, North Holland

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.
Conditions Fluid OverloadKidney InjuryMake-30
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.