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Asymptomatic ConditionNCT06048237

Investigating Diaphragm Thickness and Mobility in Healthy Parous and Nulliparous Volunteers Using RUSI

An observational study of Asymptomatic Condition, run by Evdokia Billis at 1 site in Greece.

Completed

Finished. The study has ended and is not enrolling. Results may be posted on the official record.

Official record
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Trial summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of diaphragm thickness and excursion measurements by applying Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging (RUSI) in a diverse cohort of healthy women, including nulliparous and parous across varying age groups. Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 60 years, women onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
Conditions the study is for
Asymptomatic Condition
What is being tested?
Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging of the diaphragm
How many people
30 participants
Where
1 siteGreece
Study dates
1 Jun 2023to 30 Nov 2023
Phase
Observational
Are there results?
None posted in the registry

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 18 to 60 years
  • Women only
  • Healthy volunteers accepted
  • Adult

Study population: The population from which the cohort will be selected consists of generally healthy women aged 18 to 60 years affiliated with the university campus area (professors and students from all academic levels). This population will be invited to participate through advertisements and university-mediated means, including emails and e-platform announcements.

Who may be able to join

  • Generally healthy women
  • Nulliparous and parous individuals
  • Age between 18 and 60 years

Who cannot join

  • Severe chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., COPD, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema or fibrosis)
  • Body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m², which may hinder ultrasound imaging
  • History of major abdominal surgery
  • Pregnancy
  • Neuromuscular disorders that could alter diaphragm morphology and function

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country.

Greece1 site
  • Laboratory of Clinical Physiotherapy and Research (CPRlab)

    Pátrai, Achaia, 26504

Other trials in Greece

About this study

Official title: Reliability of Diaphragm Thickness and Excursion Measurements Performed Via Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging (RUSI) Across Healthy Parous and Nulliparous Women

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of diaphragm thickness and excursion measurements by applying Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging (RUSI) in a diverse cohort of healthy women, including nulliparous and parous across varying age groups.

The diaphragm, which is primarily a respiratory muscle, is also considered to contribute to spinal stability. Utilizing RUSI, a non-invasive and cost-effective imaging modality, we intend to examine diaphragm parameters. Preliminary evidence highlights a potential link between diaphragm dysfunction and musculoskeletal conditions such as lumbopelvic pain. This research hypothesizes that understanding diaphragm behavior in different pathologies, including postpartum recovery and lower back pain, can contribute to tailored rehabilitation strategies, potentially benefiting a wide range of clinical conditions, and facilitating the assessment of intervention effectiveness. Additionally, this study addresses the lack of research on the diaphragm's role in postpartum rehabilitation and offers novel insights into its reliability, particularly within this demographic.

Read the detailed description

The diaphragm is the main respiratory muscle but is also considered to contribute significantly to trunk stability and posture due to its unique anatomy and coordination with other trunk muscles. Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging (RUSI) technique provides a safe, and cost-effective method for assessing diaphragm muscle function. RUSI is employed in musculoskeletal physiotherapy to assess diaphragm thickness or mobility in trunk conditions such as lumbopelvic pain, as a method to investigate rehabilitation effectiveness or as a biofeedback tool for muscle training. Although, the reliability of RUSI measurements for diaphragm thickness and excursion has been previously investigated in healthy populations, individuals with pelvic girdle pain and athletes with lumbopelvic pain, its reliability on postpartum populations has never been researched. Therefore, this study aims to assess the reliability of diaphragm thickness and excursion measurements in healthy women, including nulliparous and parous individuals of varying ages, utilizing RUSI.

This reliability study adheres to Ethical considerations and the Helsinki Declaration and is approved by the Research Ethics Committee (R.E.C.) of the University of Patras. The study incorporates a robust quality assurance plan, according to the Internal Review Board of the Research Ethics Committee (R.E.C.) of the University of Patras, including data checks to assess data validation and registry procedures performed by the Data Monitoring Committee of R.E.C. of the University of Patras, as well as site monitoring and auditing, to maintain protocol adherence and data collection integrity. The accuracy, completeness, and representativeness of registry data is assured by the research team, comparing the data to preliminary data published in similar reliability studies. A comprehensive data dictionary is established among the research team, containing detailed variable descriptions, coding information, and normal ranges, ensuring consistency and clarity in data collection.

RUSI is performed by two trained physiotherapists (with more than 5 years of clinical experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy). The physiotherapists received one-day training from a consultant radiologist, specializing in musculoskeletal sonographic imaging, followed by several hours of independent and joint practice between the radiologist and physiotherapists. A convenience sample of adult women coming from around the broader university campus area is invited to participate in the study, via advertisements and university-mediated means (emails, e-platform university announcements etc.). Informed consent is obtained from all participants. Participants undergo an ultrasound assessment in the semi-recumbent position with the Versana Active™ ultrasound system. Anatomical guide points are marked by a surgical skin marker for accuracy, and the 2 trained physiotherapists perform the assessments according to Boussuges et al. (2020) recommendations. Diaphragm thickness is measured using a high-resolution linear transducer in B-mode at the end of a full inspiration and full expiration. Diaphragm excursion is assessed using a high-resolution curvilinear transducer in M-mode during tidal volume diaphragmatic breathing. A two-minute resting interval follows each measurement. During the resting intervals, calipers are placed on the captured images according to literature recommendations and measurements are recorded and saved. Intra-tester and inter-tester reliability are evaluated by taking 3 consecutive measurements per parameter. Operators and subjects are blinded for all measurements taken, by covering measurement tables at the edge of the ultrasound screen. An independent researcher blinded to the subject identity (the identity of the subject on the ultrasound screen is concealed by the operator at the end of the assessment) and the examination procedure is responsible for the extraction, and documentation of all variables in a spreadsheet software.

All patient data are stored anonymously/coded in a secure cloud platform accessed only by the research team members. Imputation methods will be applied to address situations where variables are missing, uninterpretable, or inconsistent. Any adverse events will be addressed and documented, while medical consultation will be accessible during patient assessment hours. Any modifications to the study protocol, data collection methods, or other aspects of the study will be reviewed thoroughly among researchers and the Internal Review Board of the R.E.C., and the study protocol as well as study registration will be adjusted accordingly. Statistical analysis of the data will be performed using SPSS software (version 28.0; SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL). Reliability will be calculated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) assessed with a two-way random effect model (ICC2,1) and 95% confidence intervals.

Being tested
Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging of the diaphragm
Keywords
Ultrasound, Diaphragm/diagnostic imaging, Rehabilitation, Parity, Validation Study
Medical subject headings
Asymptomatic Diseases

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging of the diaphragmDiagnostic test

    In this reliability study, ultrasound imaging will be utilized by trained physiotherapists to assess diaphragm thickness and excursion. Participants will be positioned in a semi-recumbent position, while the scanning area will be marked with a surgical skin marker according to specific anatomical landmarks recommended, to ensure reproducibility of the procedure. Ultrasound probe will be placed at the zone of apposition to visualize the diaphragm through the liver window.

    Diaphragm thickness will be assessed during both full inhalation and exhalation, capturing images in B-mode to measure distance between the diaphragmatic pleura and peritoneal fascia. Diaphragm excursion will be assessed during tidal volume diaphragmatic breathing, using M-mode to track the craniocaudal displacement of the diaphragm during respiratory cycle. Data obtained will contribute to the evaluation of the reliability of diaphragm thickness and excursion measurements for potential future clinical applications.

Study groups in NCT06048237
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
Reliability Assessment ArmThis is a single-arm reliability assessment study. Reliability will be assessed by conducting measurements of diaphragm thickness and excursion on the same participants by the same rater (intra-rater reliability) and by different raters (inter-rater reliability) to evaluate measurement consistency.
Receives: Diagnostic Test: Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging of the diaphragm

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Inspiratory Diaphragm Thickness

    The thickness of the diaphragm muscle at the end of a full inspiration measured in centimeters (cm).

    Measured: Measured at full inspiration during the same session (aprox. 10 minutes)

  2. Expiratory Diaphragm Thickness

    The thickness of the diaphragm muscle at the end of a full expiration measured in centimeters (cm).

    Measured: Measured at full expiration during the same session (aprox. 10 minutes)

  3. Diaphragm Excursion

    It measures the craniocaudal displacement (movement from top to bottom) of the diaphragm during the respiratory cycle in centimeters (cm).

    Measured: Measured during quiet, tidal breathing during the same session in a random order (before or after diaphragm thickness) (aprox. 10 minutes)

Secondary outcomes (1)
  1. Thickening Fraction (Percentage of Thickening)

    This metric quantifies the percentage of change in diaphragm thickness during breathing. It is computed by taking the difference between diaphragm thickness at the end of inspiration and diaphragm thickness at the end of expiration, divided by diaphragm thickness at the end of expiration, and then multiplying by 100%.

    Measured: Thickening fraction is calculated post-assessment by an independent researcher (aprox. 5 minutes)

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted21 Sep 2023
  2. Study start1 Jun 2023
  3. Primary completion30 Nov 2023
  4. Study completion30 Nov 2023

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Observational
Observational model
Other
Time perspective
Prospective
Enrolment
30 participants (actual)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT06048237
Sponsor's protocol ID
RUSI and diaphragm
Status last verified
Dec 2023
First submitted
14 Sep 2023
Last updated
13 Feb 2024
Results posted
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
No: We are happy to share data if needed.

Publications

  • Hodges PW, Butler JE, McKenzie DK, Gandevia SC. Contraction of the human diaphragm during rapid postural adjustments. J Physiol. 1997 Dec 1;505 ( Pt 2)(Pt 2):539-48. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.1997.539bb.x.

    PubMed 9423192
  • Hodges PW, Gandevia SC. Activation of the human diaphragm during a repetitive postural task. J Physiol. 2000 Jan 1;522 Pt 1(Pt 1):165-75. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.2000.t01-1-00165.xm.

    PubMed 10618161
  • Shirley D, Hodges PW, Eriksson AE, Gandevia SC. Spinal stiffness changes throughout the respiratory cycle. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2003 Oct;95(4):1467-75. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00939.2002.

    PubMed 12970374
  • Hodges PW, Eriksson AE, Shirley D, Gandevia SC. Intra-abdominal pressure increases stiffness of the lumbar spine. J Biomech. 2005 Sep;38(9):1873-80. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2004.08.016.

    PubMed 16023475
  • Janssens L, McConnell AK, Pijnenburg M, Claeys K, Goossens N, Lysens R, Troosters T, Brumagne S. Inspiratory muscle training affects proprioceptive use and low back pain. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2015 Jan;47(1):12-9. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000000385.

    PubMed 24870567
  • Dulger E, Bilgin S, Bulut E, Inal Ince D, Kose N, Turkmen C, Cetin H, Karakaya J. The effect of stabilization exercises on diaphragm muscle thickness and movement in women with low back pain. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2018;31(2):323-329. doi: 10.3233/BMR-169749.

    PubMed 29278870
  • Calvo-Lobo C, Almazan-Polo J, Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo R, Losa-Iglesias ME, Palomo-Lopez P, Rodriguez-Sanz D, Lopez-Lopez D. Ultrasonography comparison of diaphragm thickness and excursion between athletes with and without lumbopelvic pain. Phys Ther Sport. 2019 May;37:128-137. doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2019.03.015. Epub 2019 Mar 28.

    PubMed 30954705
  • Scarlata S, Mancini D, Laudisio A, Benigni A, Antonelli Incalzi R. Reproducibility and Clinical Correlates of Supine Diaphragmatic Motion Measured by M-Mode Ultrasonography in Healthy Volunteers. Respiration. 2018;96(3):259-266. doi: 10.1159/000489229. Epub 2018 Aug 16.

    PubMed 30114702
  • Scarlata S, Mancini D, Laudisio A, Raffaele AI. Reproducibility of diaphragmatic thickness measured by M-mode ultrasonography in healthy volunteers. Respir Physiol Neurobiol. 2019 Feb;260:58-62. doi: 10.1016/j.resp.2018.12.004. Epub 2018 Dec 13.

    PubMed 30553945
  • Wilches-Luna EC, Pabon-Munoz FE, Arias-Campo JM, Caballero-Lozada AF. Inter-rater reliability of the measurement of diaphragmatic excursion and fraction of diaphragmatic thickening by ultrasonography in healthy volunteers. Rev Esp Anestesiol Reanim (Engl Ed). 2022 Nov;69(9):536-543. doi: 10.1016/j.redare.2021.06.003. Epub 2022 Oct 11.

    PubMed 36241512
  • Boussuges A, Rives S, Finance J, Bregeon F. Assessment of diaphragmatic function by ultrasonography: Current approach and perspectives. World J Clin Cases. 2020 Jun 26;8(12):2408-2424. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i12.2408.

    PubMed 32607319

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

An observational study of Asymptomatic Condition, run by Evdokia Billis at 1 site in Greece.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 3 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 13 Feb 2024. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Greece. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Inspiratory Diaphragm Thickness (time frame: Measured at full inspiration during the same session (aprox. 10 minutes)). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?

On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06048237, which also lists 11 linked publications.

Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 13 Feb 2024.

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