Venous Pressure Measurement in Exchange Transfusion

Abstract

Catheterization of the inferior vena cava through the umbilical vein and ductus venosus was possible in 60% of 31 infants, 1-31 hours old. In confirmation of other workers, the mean central venous pressure at heart level was similar to that found in the adult, but the respiratory swings were frequently as large as 13 cm H2O; the mean pressure below the ductus venosus in the portal sinus was + 7 to + 10 cm. H2O. No relation was observed between the pressures measured in the inferior vena cava and the portal sinus. The latter should not be used as a substitute for central venous pressure in assessing the "deficit" with which the baby should be left at the end of exchange transfusion.