Inferior Vena Cava Collapsibility

IVC collapsibility index (IVCCI) is assessed by measuring the maximum and minimum diameters of the inferior vena cava just below the hepatic vein confluence during quiet respiration or a sniff maneuver. A large IVC (>2.1 cm) that collapses less than 50% with inspiration suggests elevated right atrial pressure. A small IVC (<2.1 cm) that collapses more than 50% suggests low right atrial pressure and volume depletion. IVC assessment is widely used in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for fluid responsiveness evaluation in emergency and critical care settings.