Inferior Vena Cava (IVC)
Where to put the probe:
• Tilt probe to look into thorax
• Start midline and sweep just to the right of patient midline
Findings
Flat IVC:
Hypotension:
More likely to improve cardiac output with IV fluids.
Dyspnea:
Suggests fluid depleted state:
• Pneumonia
• Anemia
Fat IVC:
Hypotension:
Less likely to improve cardiac output with IV fluids.
Higher risk of developing pulmonary edema with fluid loading!
Dyspnea:
Suggests high RV pressure:
• Congestive heart failure
• Pulmonary embolism
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Tamponade