Comparison of Weaning Parameters and Diaphragm Thickness Changes

Determining the appropriate timing for mechanical ventilator weaning in intensive care unit patients is critical to avoid complications related to early or late weaning, including weaning failure. Common predictors such as P0.1, F/VT, WOB, and P0.1 × F/VT are routinely used to guide this decision. Recently, diaphragm muscle weakness has been recognized as a significant contributor to weaning failure. Ultrasound has emerged as a useful, repeatable, and non-invasive tool for assessing diaphragmatic function. This study investigates the relationship between ultrasound-based diaphragm thickness changes and standard weaning predictors. It also evaluates the impact of demographic variables such as age, gender, weight, and comorbidities on diaphragm thickness. A total of 68 mechanically ventilated patients, aged 18 years or older, with Glasgow Coma Scale \>8 and BMI \<35, were included. Ultrasound measurements were performed on the first day of intubation and prior to extubation, using a high-frequency linear probe from the right anterior mid-axillary line at the 8th-10th rib level. Weaning was considered successful if patients maintained spontaneous breathing for 48 hours post-extubation.