Ultrasound evaluation of venous congestion

Abstract

In the last decade, ultrasound usage has had a great impact on the evaluation of intravenous fluid therapy in critically ill patients; however, positive fluid balances and fluid overload are frequent in the intensive care unit and are associated with a morbidity and mortality increase and with a wide range of adverse effects. The Venous Excess Ultrasound Score (VExUS) aims to assess venous congestion and veno-ventricular interaction, which can finally close the resuscitation cycle with the concept of “de-resuscitation.”