Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: Large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the right atrium.

Key Facts

• Returns venous blood from abdomen, pelvis, and lower extremities to right atrium.
• Acts as a major conduit for preload to the right heart.
• Collapses or distends with intravascular volume and pressure changes.

ECG Connection: Right-heart preload fluctuations can influence sinus rate and ectopy burden.

Why It Matters: Volume status shifts may explain rhythm variability on telemetry.