Introducing the precision device that measures the fluid in the lungs

Hillel Yaffe Medical Center is one of the first medical centers in the world to use a special device for precise measurement of the amount of fluid in the lungs. It is a rapid noninvasive test that is performed using a sensor placed on the patient's chest that is directly connected to a digital computer screen. The results are displayed on the screen in just 45 seconds.

“One of the most common effects in heart failure patients is the build up of fluids in the lung tissue, which can lead to development of pulmonary edema. In mild cases, the edema will result in shortness of breath and, in more severe cases, may lead to respiratory failure, a medical emergency that may require artificial respiration and without immediate treatment can lead to death,” said Hillel Yaffe Medical Center's Congestive Heart Failure Clinic Director, Dr. Jamil Mohsen.

Dr. Jamil Mohsen using the device to measure fluid in the lungs at Hillel Yaffe

Advantages of the device

The test that is commonly used now to identify fluid in the lungs is a chest X-ray. X-rays have numerous disadvantages, including availability of the test, performance of the test, which requires the patient to be transported and cannot be done at the patient’s bedside, the length of the test and time until the results are received, which is longer, and the X-ray device which emits radiation.

“This special device enables us to precisely measure the amount of fluid in the lungs and then to optimally adjust the dosage of medications for the patient. Adaptation of treatment and medication control are critical for heart failure patients. If they are not treated optimally with medication, the average life span of these patients is just five years. Additionally, the test prevents recurrent hospitalizations, the reduction of which has also been proven to help lower the mortality rate among this population,” said Dr. Mohsen. Furthermore, the device offers additional advantages: it is easy to operate and move, and it can be used by any staff member. The test is noninvasive, so it lowers the potential harm from radiation, and the result is received quickly.

Who is the test intended for?

Fluid in the lungs is measured in heart failure patients who are hospitalized in cardiac intensive care units and internal medicine units, outpatients and heart failure monitoring clinics. Additionally, the test is also performed for patients who come into the Emergency Room and cardio-oncology patients, whose chemotherapy has led to impaired heart function.

The HYMC Cardiology Division Director Prof. Ariel Roguin, said, “The number of patients who require this test has been rising in recent years. Every heart failure patient needs to undergo this test. Precise assessment of the amount of fluid is critical, as it enables us to provide optimal and personalized medication therapy for every patient and helps extend their life span. This is innovative technology that puts Hillel Yaffe at the forefront of medicine in this field.

The test requires an HMO Payment Authorization Form or payment of NIS 100.

To schedule an appointment at the Heart Failure Clinic, call *6742.