CHEST Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Immersion Program October 25, 2023-Cardiac Assessment_ Discuss the Echo and Right Heart Catheter (RHC) Evaluation-Raja

Cardiac Assessment_ Discuss the Echo and Right Heart Catheter (RHC) Evaluation-Raja

Pdf Summary

In this document, Cardiac Assessment: Echo and Right Heart Catheterization, the author discusses the methods and techniques used to monitor right heart function in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The author explains that patients with PAH do not die from their lungs exploding, but rather from right heart failure. Therefore, it is important to monitor and assess the function of the right heart in these patients.<br /><br />The author first explains the use of transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) in assessing right heart function. TTE uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart and can provide information on right ventricular systolic function, pulmonary artery pressure, and signs of right heart remodeling.<br /><br />However, the author also highlights the limitations of TTE, such as the need for high-quality images and interpretation, and the difficulty in assessing left ventricular diastolic function.<br /><br />The document also discusses the use of right heart catheterization, which is considered the gold standard for assessing hemodynamics in PH. It provides valuable information for diagnosis and follow-up, including right atrial pressure, cardiac output, and pulmonary vascular resistance.<br /><br />The author emphasizes that TTE is the best test for screening for PH and is often used for monitoring patients on follow-up. Right heart catheterization, on the other hand, is required for the diagnosis of PH and provides important prognostic information.<br /><br />In summary, the document highlights the importance of monitoring and assessing right heart function in patients with PAH. TTE is a useful tool for screening and follow-up, while right heart catheterization is necessary for diagnosis and provides valuable hemodynamic information.

Keywords

Cardiac Assessment

Echo

Right Heart Catheterization

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Right Heart Function

Transthoracic Echocardiogram

Gold Standard

Hemodynamics

Screening for PH

Diagnosis