Inferior Vena Cava

The ideal IVC view is longitudinal allowing visualization as it courses through the liver and enters into the right atrium.

Transducer placement (Figure 1)

Once the right ventricle and atrium are identified in the subxyphiod
Rotate the probe counterclockwise 90 degrees
Longitudinal images are best obtained for IVC measurements (Clip 1)
Look for the confluence of the hepatic vein into the IVC (Figure 2)
The IVC can be differentiated from the aorta by its thinner walls and collapse during respirations
May need to increase the depth

Orientation Cardiac Presets (Figure 2)

IVC longitudinal view, indicator is towards the patient’s head
Indicator on the right of the screen

Orientation Abdominal Presets for the FAST and RUSH (Figure 3)

IVC the indicator is towards the patient’s head
Indicator on the left of the screen

Tips

This view allows assessment for IVC diameter, and IVC diameter change with respiration

M-mode or 2D caliper can be used to make the measurements

Figures and Clips

Figure 1 - Transducer Placement

Figure 2 - Orientation

Figure 3 - Ideal IVC - Cardiac Preset

Figure 4 - Ideal IVC - Abdominal Preset

Clip 1 - IVC Respiratory Variation

References

Moore, Christopher L., and Joshua A. Copel. “Point-of-care ultrasonography.” New England Journal of Medicine 364.8 (2011): 749-757.