Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive technique to assess organ function. Its potential application in rodents to evaluate respiratory function remains poorly investigated. We aimed to assess and validate ultrasound technique in rats to analyze inspiratory and expiratory muscles. We measured respiratory parameters to provide normal eupneic values. Histological studies and plethysmography were used to validate the technique and assess the physiological implications. A linear relationship was observed between ultrasound and histological data for diaphragm and rectus abdominis (RA) measurement. The tidal volume was significantly correlated with the right + left RA area (r = 0.76, p < 0.001), and the rapid shallow breathing index was significantly and inversely correlated with the right + left RA area (r=-0.53, p < 0.05). In the supine position, the right and left diaphragm expiratory thickness were not associated with tidal volume obtained in the physiological position. Ultrasound imaging is highly accurate and reproducible to assess and follow up diaphragm and RA structure and function in rats.

超声成像是一种评估器官功能的非侵入性技术。其在啮齿类动物中评估呼吸功能的潜在应用仍然缺乏研究。我们旨在评估和验证大鼠的超声技术以分析吸气和呼气肌肉。我们测量了呼吸参数以提供正常的调节值。组织学研究和体积描记术用于验证该技术并评估生理意义。在横膈膜和腹直肌 (RA) 测量的超声和组织学数据之间观察到线性关系。潮气量与右+左RA面积显着相关（r=0.76，p<0.001），快速浅呼吸指数与右+左RA面积显着负相关（r=-0.53，p<0.05） ）。在仰卧位，左右膈肌呼气厚度与生理位置获得的潮气量无关。超声成像具有高度准确和可重复性，可用于评估和跟踪大鼠的膈肌和 RA 结构和功能。