Passive leg raise

Passive Leg Raise

The Passive Leg Raise (PLR) is a simple bedside test used in the medical field to assess fluid responsiveness in patients, particularly those in critical care settings. It involves raising the patient's legs to increase venous return and cardiac preload, simulating the effect of a fluid bolus.

File:Passive Leg Raise.jpg

A demonstration of the Passive Leg Raise procedure.

Procedure

The Passive Leg Raise is performed with the patient in a supine position. The lower limbs are lifted to an angle of 45 degrees, which is maintained for a few minutes. The patient's hemodynamic response is then observed. If the patient's cardiac output increases, they are considered fluid responsive.

Indications

The Passive Leg Raise is primarily used to assess fluid responsiveness in critically ill patients. It can be particularly useful in patients with conditions such as septic shock and acute heart failure, where fluid management is crucial.

Limitations

While the Passive Leg Raise is a simple and non-invasive test, it does have some limitations. It may not be suitable for patients with certain conditions, such as lower limb deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or severe peripheral artery disease (PAD). It also requires careful interpretation, as other factors can influence the hemodynamic response.

See Also

• Fluid responsiveness
• Septic shock
• Acute heart failure