Introduction
Cervical Landmarks
Use of tangential light
Distinguishing arterial from venous pulsations:1
Distinguishing arterial from venous pulsations:2
Distinguishing arterial from venous pulsations:3
Distinguishing arterial from venous pulsations:4
Venous A wave
Cannon A wave
Venous V wave
Venous X descent
Venous Y descent
Catheterization findings
What would Osler do ?
Osler's recommendation
PDF Files
KNOWLEDGE of the mechanisms of paradoxical splitting of the second heart sound and recognizing paradoxical splitting of the second heart sound on cardiac auscultation are two separate skills. Similarly, knowing the cardiac mechanisms that produce normal and abnormal venous pulsations is of no value unless one can recognize these pulsations on physical examination. Advances in medical technology have resulted in less emphasis on teaching physical examination skills. These examination skills, however, remain important in the everyday assessment and management of patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders. The goal of this tutorial is to visually demonstrate normal and abnormal venous wave forms and techniques for recognizing them on physical examination. The tutorial consists of 13 videos, each accompanied by explanatory text. Details of the hemodynamic mechanisms are not discussed in depth and can be found in standard physical examination and cardiology textbooks. The tutorial does not discuss the technique of assessing central venous pressure. A good review of assessment of central venous pressure can be found at Assessment of Central Venous Pressure
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If you have questions or suggestions, please send them to rsiegel45@gmail.com
Ronald Siegel, MD
Department of Cardiology
Medical College of Wisconsin
Retired