The ULTRA Study: Cross-Comparison of Ultrasound Systems

The purpose of this study is to develop computational methods for cross-comparison of muscle
composition measurements in three laboratory ultrasound systems. We propose a cross-sectional
study to obtain ultrasound images of selected muscles in Veteran participants. These data
will be used to develop conversion models for each system. Evaluation of neuromuscular
symptoms such as muscle weakness and fatigue is crucial to improving quality of life among
Veterans. These symptoms may be related to progressive changes in muscle tissue composition,
including increased intramuscular fat and atrophy. Quantitative musculoskeletal ultrasound is
a diagnostic imaging application used to characterize muscle tissue composition. Despite its
non-invasiveness and relative low cost, quantitative musculoskeletal ultrasound has not been
widely adopted by the medical community due in part to technical barriers that impede
generalization of measurements across ultrasound systems. Unfortunately, few techniques have
been proposed to reliably compare system measurements. Development of new cross-comparison
methods could expand quantitative musculoskeletal ultrasound applications and improve
neuromuscular symptoms diagnosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Male or female Veteran who receives medical care at the Washington DC VA Medical
Center

- Ages 20-85

Exclusion Criteria:

- Limb amputation (upper or lower extremity)

- Lower extremity joint replacement

- Severe cognitive impairment

- Edema

- Inability to read, speak, or understand English