Ultrasound Assessment of Inferior Vena Cava Indices Before and After Fluid Resuscitation in Pediatric Septic Shock (Code-T0283)

Introduction: Septic shock is a life-threatening condition in pediatric intensive care units (PICU), requiring timely fluid resuscitation. However, fluid overload remains a critical concern. Inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter and collapsibility/distensibility indices assessed via ultrasound have emerged as potential predictors of fluid responsiveness, though their reliability remains debated.

Aims and Objectives: Toassess the Inferior Vena Cava diameter/indices before and after intravenous fluid resuscitation as a reliable predictor of fluid responsiveness in children aged 1 month to 12 years with septic shock.

Methods: A prospective observational study will be conducted on children aged 1 month to 12 years admitted to PICU with septic shock. IVC diameter and indices will be measured via ultrasound before and after a standard fluid bolus of 20 mL/kg. Data will be statistically analyzed using SPSS to assess the predictive accuracy of IVC parameters in fluid responsiveness.

Results: The study anticipates a significant correlation between increased IVC diameter/indices and fluid responsiveness. It is expected that IVC measurements will help differentiate responders from non-responders, optimizing fluid management and reducing complications associated with fluid overload.

Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided IVC assessment offers a promising, non-invasive tool for predicting fluid responsiveness in pediatric septic shock. Its incorporation into clinical practice may enhance patient outcomes by guiding precise fluid administration.

Keywords: Septic shock, Fluid resuscitation, Inferior vena cava, Ultrasound, Pediatric intensive care, Hemodynamic monitoring.