Right ventricular pressure-volume loop analysis in congenital heart disease

Right ventricular (RV) function is an independent predictor of prognosis in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Early detection is therefore crucial but current methods to assess RV function are highly load-dependent. RV pressure-volume (PV) loop analysis is an invasive technique which is load-independent and considered the gold standard for evaluating RV adaptation in relation to its load. However, RV PV loop analysis can be time consuming and prone to inter-operator variability. This article provides a comprehensive guide on performing RV PV loop analysis using the multi-beat method in pediatric and adult patients with complex CHD. RV PV loop analysis using the multi-beat method can be safely and reliably applied in children and adults with complex CHD. RV PV loop analysis offers a valuable tool for advanced insight into RV adaptation and a deeper understanding of cardiac physiology in complex CHD patients with RV pressure and/or volume overload. By enhancing our understanding of RV adaptation, this approach holds great potential for improving patient management and optimizing treatment strategies. • RV PV loop analysis via multi-beat method is safe and reliable in complex CHD patients. • RV PV loops give advanced insight into RV adaptation to pressure/volume overload in CHD patients. • Improved insight in RV adaptation may enhance patient care and optimize treatment in CHD.