Point of Care Internal Jugular Vein Ultrasound for the Assessment of Perioperative Hemodynamics: Methodology and Critical Analysis Review

Sonographic examination of major vessels can be a valuable bedside tool for perioperative hemodynamic assessment. In the present review, we present the anatomic and physiological aspects of internal jugular vein ultrasonography, its utility in assessing central venous pressure, intravascular volume status, fluid responsiveness, and its predictive value regarding post-spinal anesthesia hypotension. The existing literature is primarily comprised of small, observational studies with great heterogeneity in their methodology and shortcomings in data development and analysis, rendering the generalization of their results difficult to interpret for daily clinical practice. Further clinical research is needed to validate the accuracy and reliability of internal jugular vein ultrasonography in these various applications.