Morphometric analysis of the inferior vena cava and its clinical correlations using abdomino-pelvic computed tomography: Series from a Jordanian population

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: This study aimed to determine the impact of DM, HTN and age on IVC dimensions as measured by CT scan relevant to guide interventions in a Jordanian population. PRESENTATION OF CASES: Two hundred patients were selected from those referred to the Radiology Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan for clinical evaluation. Patients were divided into three age subgroups. Age, sex, and comorbidities such as DM and HTN were identified and saved for later use. All dimensions of the IVC were measured using an abdomino-pelvic CT scanner. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: A full morphometric analysis of the IVC would provide a better understanding of the dynamicity of the IVC in relation to its blood flow. Our results revealed that the length of the IVC was significantly shorter with age (P = 0.003). DM significantly affected the length of the IVC (P = 0.044). Hypertension also significantly affected the length of the IVC (P = 0.031), but it did not significantly affect the anterio-posterior or the transverse diameters of the IVC. CONCLUSION: The length of the IVC was significantly shorter with age, DM and hypertension. Morphometric measures of the IVC are of great clinical importance as they may assist in medical or surgical intervention and follow-up.