Diastolic Dysfunction and Interstitial Lung Edema in Septic Patients

Sepsis is one of the most challenging conditions with an exceptionally high mortality rate. Diastolic Dysfunction is common in septic patients and has been found to be associated with mortality. However, the reasons for this remain unclear. Therefore, the goal of this study is to investigate diastolic dysfunction in septic patients on the intensive care unit. Special attention is paid to the presence of lung edema and general edema as a potential link between diastolic dysfunction and elevated mortality in septic patients. During the septic phase daily ultrasound examinations of heart and lung will be performed as to monitor diastolic function and lung edema.