Jugular vein ultrasound for estimating changes in blood volume: a new tool for all physicians

Abstract

Blood volume estimation is a routine task in internal medicine but can be difficult in certain clinical situations, such as in elderly people [1]. The benchmark non-invasive method for blood volume estimation is the determination of the left ventricle filling pressure using heart ultrasound, but this technique is not always available—especially for repeated measures on demand. In recent years, jugular vein ultrasound has demonstrated its diagnostic value for ruling out cardiac causes of dyspnea [2]. Research results suggest that jugular vein ultrasound can detect changes before a physical examination reveals jugular distension [3, 4]. This tool is widely available but has not previously been studied in the context of blood volume variations. We assessed the changes in jugular height collapse (JHC) following a blood transfusion, as measured with jugular vein ultrasound by untrained physicians. Blood transfusion is a common clinical situation that increases the blood volume.