Incidence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Diaphragm Dysfunction After Lung Transplantation

Diaphragm dysfunction (DD) is a well-known complication after lung transplantation. Patients with an injured and dysfunctional diaphragm have greater difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation post-transplant - they become too weak to breathe. However, little is known about the pre-transplant predictive factors associated with diaphragm dysfunction . We have developed a new technique employing beside ultrasound to measure diaphragm thickness. This allows us to observe changes in diaphragm muscle structure and function.

The goal of the study is to determine whether pre-transplant diaphragm thickness and function are associated with diaphragmatic dysfunction after lung transplantation. This will help us to confirm the best way to avoid diaphragm injury and to understanding the meaning of diaphragm ultrasound images.