Right heart and pulmonary pressures · Pathway
BSA — m²
RA pressure from the IVC (2025 Figure 3 algorithm)
Version 2026.10.1
IVC diameter and respirophasic variation with sniff (or quiet respiration when a sniff is not possible) assign RAP 3, 8 or 15 mmHg; indeterminate patterns are resolved by secondary indices; positive-pressure ventilation and the 20 mmHg case are handled explicitly.
Quick reference:↑ RAP, pulmonary pressures and RV–PA coupling
Flowchart:
Applicability
- IVC measured at end-expiration from the subcostal view, 0.5–3.0 cm proximal to the RA ostium, with 2D and M-mode, limiting translational motion.
- Report a specific value (3, 8 or 15 mmHg), not a range.
- IVC dilation can be normal in young healthy adults, athletes and pregnancy; look for adjunctive evidence of elevated filling pressure.
- Figure 3 — IVC DiameterIs the end-expiratory IVC diameter normal (≤2.1 cm) or abnormal (>2.1 cm)?Subcostal, 0.5–3.0 cm proximal to the RA ostiumIVC diameter is required.