Lung ultrasound may improve heart failure diagnosis and reduce hospitalization risk

The researchers conducted a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial in which patients were randomized to either LUS-guided arm or control arm. During a 6-month period, the patients were followed in 4 pre-specified visits. LUS was performed in every patient visit in both groups; LUS results were available for the treating physician only in the LUS group.

The primary outcome was the composite of urgent heart failure visits, rehospitalization for worsening HF, and death from any cause.

The study involved a total of 126 patients who were randomized to either LUS (n = 63) or control (n = 63) (age 62.5 ± 10 years, median LVEF 31%). 

"Incorporation of LUS into clinical follow-up of patients with HF significantly reduced the risk of urgent visits for worsening HF," concluded the authors.

The study, "A randomized controlled trial of lung ultrasound guided therapy in heart failure (CLUSTER-HF study)," was published in the American Heart Journal.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2020.06.003