Encountering venous valves is not uncommon, and they can potentially be confused with pathology such as dissection by uninformed clinicians. In nephrology practice, internal jugular vein (IJV) valves are often observed when assessing right atrial pressure or placing a dialysis catheter. In fact, IJV valves are present in more than 90% of the population. These valves, located deep in the neck, are better visualized with a linear transducer with a smaller footprint (or a hockey stick probe) and in patients with a dilated IJV. Below are a couple of examples and an illustration demonstrating the position of IJV and subclavian valves.
Below is a nice M-mode image across the valve, illustrating that the valve remains open, allowing blood flow into the right atrium throughout most of the cardiac cycle, including both systole and diastole.
Being the sole valve between the brain and the heart, it plays a crucial role in preventing the backward flow of venous blood. Occasionally, valve damage during the insertion of a guidewire can create a nidus for thrombus formation. If you encounter ‘resistance’ while advancing the guidewire during catheter placement, consider the valve. In such cases, trying the ‘head-up’ position (instead of Trendelenburg) is recommended because the favorable gravitational gradient in an upright posture keeps the valve open throughout the cardiac cycle, making it easier to pass the guidewire. Below is an example illustrating the guidewire passing through the valve leaflets in the long-axis view. The short-axis view depicts needle entry through the valve as the operator follows the needle tip.
Veins in the lower extremities also contain valves, which may be encountered during a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) assessment. Here is an example of a popliteal vein valve, along with an illustration depicting the position of lower limb vein valves.
Uncategorized
- SEO Powered Content & PR Distribution. Get Amplified Today.
- PlatoData.Network Vertical Generative Ai. Empower Yourself. Access Here.
- PlatoAiStream. Web3 Intelligence. Knowledge Amplified. Access Here.
- PlatoESG. Carbon, CleanTech, Energy, Environment, Solar, Waste Management. Access Here.
- PlatoHealth. Biotech and Clinical Trials Intelligence. Access Here.
- Source: https://renal.platohealth.ai/venous-valves/