Clinical Research Directory

TransThoracic Ultrasound for Descending Aortic Aneurysms

The goal of this observational study is to assess the applicability of non-invasive ultrasound in aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta. The main question it aims to answer is: What is the feasibility of Ultrasound to visualise the Descending Thoracic Aorta, and can this imaging modality accurately measure the maximum size of aneurysms and residual sacs with acceptable reproducibility? Participants are having their diagnosis confirmed or excluded by conventional imaging techniques (CT scans). Participants receive exactly the same standard of care regardless of their participation. The study offers an additional ultrasound scan, and the results will be compared with previous imaging.

Atrial Strain in Septic Shock

Septic shock is a critical condition associated with high mortality. Transthoracic echocardiography is widely used to evaluate cardiac function and guide treatment. Left and right atrial strain (LAS and RAS) measured via speckle tracking echocardiography have shown prognostic value in cardiovascular diseases. However, differences exist between echocardiographic software, leading to challenges in result comparability. This study aims to compare LAS and RAS measurements between ECHOPAC and UWS software, evaluate AutoStrain technology, and assess reproducibility across observers. The study is non-interventional and will use retrospective echocardiographic data from patients treated for septic shock. The findings will contribute to improving measurement standardization in critically ill patients.