Noninvasive evaluation of the inferior vena cava. The value of sonography

T. L. Slovis, S. K. Clapp and Z. Q. Farooki

Children who have abnormalities of the inferior vena cava (IVC) appear with diverse signs and symptoms. Those with congenital IVC malformations have symptoms related to associated cardiac disease. Those with IVC compression or obstruction may have ascites, hepatomegaly, edema of the lower extremities, and/or signs of portal hypertension. Sonography of the IVC has become a routine part of the evaluation of congenital heart disease and also part of the examination of patients with abdominal masses. Sonography should be the initial imaging modality in children at high risk for caval disorders. Previously used diagnostic procedures such as the inferior venacavogram should now be used only as a secondary investigative tool.