Lung ultrasound to direct chest physiotherapy in neonates
Neonates, Lung Disease
The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of LUS compared to current chest physiotherapy outcome measures in determining the need for and effect of physiotherapy on neonates. This will be done by comparing whether LUS is better at guiding CPT treatment than looking at the lungs with CXR and listening to the lungs using a stethoscope. Results may help us improve how CPT is delivered to babies in the future.
What you need to know
Who can take part?
Neonates who:
- Are admitted to the NICU.
- Require mechanically ventilated.
- Are identified as meeting criteria for physiotherapy assessment.
- Have had a CXR in the previous 24 hours
Additionally, the parent/guardian must:
- Have signed the consent form.
- Be competent in understanding what the process will involve, assuring informed consent is obtained.
What is involved for you?
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and feasibility of LUS compared to current CPT outcome measures of auscultation and CXR, in guiding decision-making around the use of CPT in neonates.
Participants will undergo a routine respiratory physiotherapy assessment on admission by a trained neonatal physiotherapist using CXR and auscultation and a CPT intervention plan determined. Participants will then undergo an LUS assessment by a physiotherapist blinded to the original assessment findings and diagnosis. LUS diagnosis and findings will be shared with the physiotherapist who provided the initial assessment and a re-evaluation of intended treatment will occur.
Trial dates
June 2024-July 2024
