The Ultrasonographic Changes of Intercostal Muscles and Diaphragm in Mechanically Ventilated Preterm Neonates

Invasive mechanical ventilation induces ventilator induced diaphragmatic dysfunction particularly when used for long time and Intercostal muscles as well contribute to the important work of respiratory movement by expanding the thorax , and determining the thickness of them would be a useful parameter in evaluating respiratory muscle activity. This study will add the impact of mechanical ventilation on the diaphragm and intercostal muscles in preterm infants using ultrasound.