Key Points
- To record cyclic pressure changes in the right auricle and right ventricle using catheterization techniques.
- Right heart catheterization was performed on 50 individuals using a Hamilton manometer.
- Catheter positioning was confirmed via lateral X-ray and fluoroscopic control.
- Pressure measurements were conducted during systole and diastole to assess variations.
- In 8 normal subjects, average right ventricular pressure was 22 mm Hg during systole (range 18-28).
- Diastolic pressure was near zero with cyclic variations of 1-3 mm Hg from respiration.
- Transient oscillatory phenomena were observed, mainly in low pressure scenarios.
Structured PICO
PPopulation50 individuals, including 8 normal subjects and some with mild to moderate essential hypertension
IInterventionRight heart catheterization using the Cournand and Ranges technic with a Hamilton manometer
OOutcomeCyclic pressure changes in the right auricle and right ventriclesurrogate
This historical study demonstrates the feasibility of recording right heart pressures in humans using right heart catheterization and establishes normal right ventricular systolic pressure at approximately 22 mm Hg.
Limitations
- Oscillatory phenomena were common, and it is uncertain if some are artifacts dependent upon the presence of the catheter
- Addition of the long narrow catheter to the manometer system decreases the natural frequency, which is not ideal in the presence of tachycardia or very vigorous cardiac contractions