November 6, 2010

Caval Index



Longitudinal ultrasound images of the IVC in an asymptomatic patient demonstrate a normal inferior vena cava (IVC) during inspiration and expiration, in which the diameters (yellow double-headed arrows) do not change significantly. In this case, the diameters of the IVC were measured 2-3 cm below the right atrial border (yellow lines).

Facts: IVC Diameter
  • IVC diameter changes following total body volume (increases with increasing total body volume, and decreases with volume depletion)
  • IVC normally collapses with inspiration (decreased intra-thoracic pressure) and expands with expiration (but this collapsibility should not exceed 50%)
Caval Index
  • Caval Index = 100 x (diam expiration - diam inspiration)/diam expiration
  • Where to measure the IVC? Several ways exist, and none is perfect yet. Easy way is to measure with a longitudinal view of the IVC - find the junction of the atrium and IVC and measure the IVC at 2-3 cm below the junction
  • Interpretation: studies vary greatly as to significance of values in different patient populations. In general, if caval index is greater than 50% it suggests low central venous pressure (CVP less than 8 mmHg) and high probability of fluid responsiveness
Reference:
Nagdev AD, Merchant RC, Tirado-Gonzalez A, et al. Emergency department bedside ultrasonographic measurement of the caval index for noninvasive determination of low central venous pressure. Ann Emerg Med 2010; 55:290-295.

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