CVP waveform

cvp waveform diagram.jpg

  • The 'a' wave occurs during contraction of the right atrium
  • The 'c' wave occurs during early ventricular contraction due to the tricuspid valve bulging in to the right atrium.
    • isovolumetric contraction of the right ventricle
    • ECG: end of QRS complex
  • The 'x' descent is due to relaxation of the atrium = downward movement of tricuspid valve
    • ECG: before T wave
  • The 'v' wave is due to an increase in atrial pressure before opening of the tricuspid valve. It corresponds to atrial filling/isovolumetric relaxation.
  • The 'y' descent happens during the emptying of the right atrium and rapid filling of the right ventricle
    • ECG: before P wave
    • Pathology: loss of y descent implies tamponade

cardiac cycle.png

#cardiac-physiology

Central venous access, CVAD position on CXR
Pressures and volumes in cardiac cycle - more Wiggers diagram

https://derangedphysiology.com/main/cicm-primary-exam/cardiovascular-system/Chapter-783/interpretation-central-venous-pressure-waveform
https://litfl.com/cvp-measurement/