Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 27, 2026

Assessment of Pulmonary Capillary Blood Volume, Membrane Diffusing Capacity, and Intrapulmonary Arteriovenous Anastomoses During Exercise
Published on: February 20, 2017
The IVC contrast level sign
Ho Yuen Frank Wong1, Kam Ho Lee2
1Department of Radiology, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. drhyfwong@gmail.com.
Abstract:
The inferior vena cava (IVC) contrast level sign refers to a contrast-fluid level seen in the IVC on an arterial phase contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan. This sign has been documented in conditions including cardiac tamponade, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrest. When this sign is detected, the patient requires immediate attention, with resuscitation initiated as needed, and the referring clinician alerted as soon as possible.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

