Correlation between central venous pressure and peripheral venous pressure with passive leg raise in patients on mechanical ventilation

Background: Central venous pressure (CVP) assesses the volume status of patients. However, this technique is not without complications. We, therefore, measured peripheral venous pressure (PVP) to see whether it can replace CVP.

Aims: To evaluate the correlation and agreement between CVP and PVP after passive leg raise (PLR) in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation.

Setting and design: Prospective observational study in Intensive Care Unit.

Methods: Fifty critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation were included in the study. CVP and PVP measurements were taken using a water column manometer. Measurements were taken in the supine position and subsequently after a PLR of 45°.

Statistical analysis: Pearson's correlation and Bland-Altman's analysis.

Results: This study showed a fair correlation between CVP and PVP after a PLR of 45° (correlation coefficient, r = 0.479; P = 0.0004) when the CVP was <10 cmH2O. However, the correlation was good when the CVP was >10 cmH2O. Bland-Altman analysis showed 95% limits of agreement to be -2.912-9.472.

Conclusion: PVP can replace CVP for guiding fluid therapy in critically ill patients.