We recently acquired a tetrapolar bioimpedanciometry device and our results in terms os body composition percentuals differ a lot from our clinical perception. We understand that clinical perception is not the best way to evaluate body composition, but our results are so unexpected that we'd like to hear from the coleagues theirs experiences and difficulties in this kind of method, in hospitalized clinical ward patiens.
My impression is that the BIA works very well in all those circumstances in which patients move a lot of water. besides, it is more useful to follow the body composition of each patient in time comparison than to understand the single values of lean and fat mass.
moreover, I suggest the vectorial approach instead of the application of equations to calculate the values of fat mass, lean mass, intra and extracellular water.
I agree on the use of vectorial approach already suggested. However, we have demostrated that the specific BIVA recognizes the relative quantity of fat mass better than the classic vectorial approach (BIVA). You can read our recent review on this matter (Bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) for the assessment of two-compartment body composition; Eur J Clin Nutr, 2014) that is freely downloadable on my profile.
I'm agree with Guglielmo. BIA it's completely adaptable to any circumstances, i've been using BIA for several years and to me it's the best method to analyze body composition since percentage of both lean and fat mass are crucial for many patients such as diabetics and obese ones to name a few.
kind regards,
FM
In my clinical practice I have used the BIA in different clinical situations also in heart patients, Hemodialysis and presently in critically ill patients. The vectorial analysis and determination of other parameters, such as cellular mass, cellular mass index and phase angle can be very helpful in the nutritional assessment of patients. The BIA also information about the hydration status and interpretation of body composition has to be analyzed based on the patient's hydration. kind regards, RR
It is true that for these sort of subjects BIA is the most practical/applicable technique currently available, however one should be aware of potential issue with BIA. I suggest that you also look at these papers for a more in-depth look at BIA.especially in those subjects with atypical fluid status and/or body geometry:
Evolution of bioimpedance: a circuitous journey from estimation
of physiological function to assessment of body composition and a
return to clinical research. HC Lukaski. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2013) 67, S2–S9
Bioimpedance at the Bedside: Current Applications,
Limitations, and Opportunities Urvashi Mulasi, MS, RD1; Adam J. Kuchnia, MS, RD, LD, CNSC1;Abigail J. Cole, BS1; and Carrie P. Earthman, PhD, RD, LD1. Nutrition in Clinical Practice, 2015 30:180–193
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