Inferior vena cava index: Literature review

Introduction: The inferior vena cava index (IVC) is a measurement that can provide an estimation of the intravascular volume using ultrasound to measure collapsibility of the inferior vein cava, which under physiological conditions is associated with respiratory movements. Objetives: To review the usefulness of IVC as a tool to estimate the volumetric status in patients in the Emergency Department and Intensive Care. Methods: A non-systematic review of the literature published from January 1, 1980 to July 31, 2017 was performed using PubMed, Medline Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct and Springer data bases. Results: Under certain circumstances, the inferior vena cava index can be considered as a tool to estimate the volumetric status of the patienfor clinical decision-making in critically ill patients. Conclusions: It is an easy-to-use tool that still needs clinical evidence, although it can still help in decision making in Emergency Department and Intensive Care treatment.