Identifying Photoplethysmographic Waves in Adults with Septic Shock

Types of Photoplethysmographic Waves in Adult Patients with Septic Shock

Observational Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga · NCT06786364

This study is trying to see what different types of blood flow signals look like in adults with septic shock and how they relate to signs of poor blood circulation.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment116 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga Government
Locations1 site (Mexico City, Cuauhtemoc)
Trial IDNCT06786364 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify the types of Photoplethysmographic waves in adults diagnosed with septic shock and to explore their correlation with various indicators of tissue hypoperfusion, such as capillary refill time, serum lactate levels, and mottling scores. Utilizing a classification system developed by Tusman and collaborators, the study categorizes these waves into six types based on arterial tone, ranging from vasoconstriction to severe vasodilation. The research will analyze the frequency of these wave types and their relationship with other hemodynamic variables, providing insights into the physiological status of patients experiencing septic shock.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with septic shock.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of shock, significant cardiac arrhythmias, chronic hepatic disease, or those who cannot have accurate photoplethysmographic measurements will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of hemodynamic status in septic shock patients, potentially leading to improved monitoring and treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of classifying photoplethysmographic waves is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in correlating waveform morphology with hemodynamic status.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients of 18 years of age and above dignossed with septic shock according to the definition stated in Sepsis 3.0
* Patients with axillary temperature above 36°C
* Patients and/or family that agree to participate in such study and sign the informed consentment
* Patients that tolerate supine position

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with Cardiogenic shock, hipovolemic, obstructive and distributive (neurogenic, anafilactic) shock the exception being septic shock
* Patients with history of any type of cardiac arrhythmia
* Patients with history of chronic hepatic disease
* Patients with limited or diffuse systemic sclerosis
* Patients that have scarring, nail polish or thickened nails that may impede the proper placement and accurate measurement of photoplethysmography with the pulse oximeter
* Patients with history of heart insufficiency P- atients with septic shock that already have vasopressor aggents

Where this trial is running

Mexico City, Cuauhtemoc

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 Shock SepticPhotoplethysmographyWaveformshock septicwaveformvasodilationarterial tone
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.