Diaphragm Dysfunction on Admission to the Intensive Care Unit. Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Prognostic Impact—A Prospective Study

Abstract

A reduced capacity of the diaphragm to produce inspiratory pressure (diaphragm dysfunction) is frequent on ICU admission. It is associated with sepsis and disease severity, suggesting that it may represent another form of organ failure. It is associated with a poor prognosis. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 00786526).