Measuring breathing effort to improve lung and diaphragm health during ventilation

Visualization of Inspiratory Effort and Respiratory Mechanics to Promote Lung- and Diaphragm Protective Ventilation

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Antwerp · NCT05459116

This study tests if measuring how hard patients breathe while on a ventilator can help keep their lungs and diaphragm healthy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages29 Days and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Antwerp Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Edegem, Antwerp and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05459116 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter prospective cohort trial involves adult and pediatric ICU patients requiring mechanical ventilation. The study aims to assess the impact of inspiratory effort on lung and diaphragm function by measuring esophageal pressures and conducting ultrasound evaluations over a maximum of 8 days. Investigators will use a nasogastric balloon catheter to quantify respiratory muscle function and hypothesize that minimal inspiratory effort will help preserve diaphragm function without harming lung health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults and children over 28 days old who are on invasive mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours.

Not a fit: Patients who have had mechanical ventilation within the last two weeks or have anatomical malformations of the diaphragm may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved ventilation strategies that protect lung and diaphragm function in critically ill patients.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding respiratory mechanics and improving patient outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* age \> 28 days
* weight \> 3kg
* requiring invasive mechanical ventilation
* anticipated length of ventilation \> 48h

Exclusion Criteria:

* refusal of consent
* mechanical ventilation ≤ 2 weeks before inclusion
* known anatomical malformation of the diaphragm (including congenital diaphragmatic hernia)
* contra-indication to the placement of a naso-gastric esophageal balloon catheter

Where this trial is running

Edegem, Antwerp and 2 other locations

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 Respiratory MusclesRespiration, ArtificialRespiratory Function Tests
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.