Physiology, Jugular Venous Pulsation

Running along the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the internal jugular vein (IJV) provides deoxygenated blood directly to the right atrium. Although there is a functional valve bordering the superior vena cava (SVC) and right atrium, this valve does not appear to hinder the phasic flow of blood to the right atrium. Therefore, the pulsations that can be observed at the level of the IJV can provide valuable insight into the hemodynamics of blood at the right atrium level. The relationship between the IJV and the right atrium is important because it provides healthcare professionals with an invaluable physical examination tool. The bedside jugular venous pulse (JVP) examination can determine the central venous pressure (CVP), venous pulse contour, and many cardiac pathologies.