Reliability of Ultrasound Examination of the Inferior Caval Vein

Reliability of Ultrasound Examination of the Inferior Caval Vein From Different Views in Critically Ill Patients on Artificial Lung Ventilation

The purpose of this study is to compare validity of examination and measurement of inferior caval vein from different views in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation.

A maximal and minimal diameter of inferior caval vein will be measured by transthoracic echocardiography in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation hospitalised in the intensive care unit from four different views:

1. Subcostal view on the inferior caval vein in the long axis,
2. subcostal view on the inferior caval vein in the short axis,
3. right lateral view on the inferior caval vein in the long axis,
4. right lateral view on the inferior caval vein in the short axis.

Comparison between the results of measurements in the subcostal view in the long axis and other views will be performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Inpatients
• Patients on mechanical ventilation indicated for transthoracic echocardiographic examination

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age <18 years
• Insufficient imaging quality
• Refusal of echocardiographic examination by patient