Lung Ultrasound Score for Prediction of Weaning Outcome From Mechanical Ventilation

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Failure of extubation of patients on mechanical ventilation is one of the common problems in the intensive care unit (ICU). Aim of work To evaluate the validity of lung ultrasound score in prediction of weaning outcomes and postextubation distress. Methods A prospective cohort observational study of 50 patients planned for extubation after a spontaneous breathing trial. Lung ultrasound score and serum level of NT-PROBNP were performed before extubation. All patients were followed for oxygenation, re-intubation rate, ICU stay and ICU mortality. Results The mean age of the study population was 61.26 ± 12.9 years; the lung ultrasound score was higher in the failed extubation group than the successful extubation group. The cutoff value of lung ultrasound score for prediction of successful extubation was 15.5 (the area under the curve: 0.851; 95% confidence interval: 0.721–0.981) with the sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 75%, respectively. Increased duration of controlled mechanical ventilation was associated with high extubation failure. Extubation failure is associated with prolonged ICU stay and an increase in ICU mortality. Conclusion Lung ultrasound score may be valid in prediction of postextubation distress with high sensitivity and specificity. Postextubation distress is associated with prolonged ICU stay and higher mortality rate.

Keywords

• N-terminal of hormone
• B-type natriuretic peptide
• intensive care unit
• lung ultrasound score
• weaning outcomes
• postextubation distress