New ultrasound method could spot muscle wasting in heart failure patients
NCT ID NCT03948776
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study checks if a portable ultrasound device can accurately measure muscle and fat loss in people with heart failure. Researchers compared ultrasound results to the standard DXA scan in 48 participants, including healthy volunteers and heart failure patients. If validated, this ultrasound could offer a safer, cheaper, and more accessible way to diagnose muscle wasting.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could provide a simple, radiation-free way to diagnose muscle wasting in heart failure patients at the bedside.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early validation study with only 48 participants. The ultrasound may not match DXA accuracy, and results may not apply to all heart failure patients.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HEART FAILURE are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Tufts Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02111, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Digital nurse companion: could an app ease the burden of chronic illness?
- Could continuing a common heart drug before surgery save lives?
- Poles apart? nordic walking may outpace standard rehab for heart failure
- Could a gentler tug on the Heart's reins spark recovery?
- Can slow breathing soothe a failing heart?
- Can shedding pounds reboot the Heart's exercise engine?