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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

heart failure

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