The Perception of the Diaphragm with Ultrasound: Always There Yet Overlooked?

Abstract

Diaphragm ultrasound makes it possible to diagnose diaphragmatic atrophy and dysfunction. Important indications include unclear dyspnea; diaphragmatic elevation; assessment of diaphragm dysfunction in pulmonary, neuromuscular and neurovascular diseases; and in critically ill patients before noninvasive and mechanical ventilation and follow-up of diaphragm thickness and function during mechanical ventilation with potential prediction of prolonged weaning. In patients with respiratory insufficiency and potential diaphragm dysfunction, it is possible to objectify the contribution of diaphragm dysfunction. In addition, assessment of diaphragmatic hernias, tumors and diaphragmatic dysfunction in COVID-19 and diaphragmatic ultrasound in sports medicine have been described. This narrative review includes the sonomorphology of the diaphragm, standardization of ultrasonographic investigation with transducer positions and ultrasound techniques, normal findings and diagnostic criteria for pathological findings. The correct sonographic measurement, calculation and evaluation can ultimately influence further therapeutic procedures for the patient suffering from diaphragm dysfunction in various diseases.