Two-dimensional echocardiographic right ventricle measurements adjusted to body mass index and surface area in a normal population

BACKGROUND: To determine reference echocardiographic values in a normal population and assess their correlation with body mass index (BMI) and body surface area. METHODS: An expert cardiologist performed two-dimensional echocardiography with triplicate right ventricle (RV) size measurements in 80 subjects with normal heart condition. Results were correlated with anthropometric data. RESULTS: Base-to-apex length in four-chamber view (RVD3) and above-pulmonic valve in short-axis view in males, as well as mid-RV diameter in standard four-chamber view (RVD), basal RV diameter, and mid RV diameter in RV-focused four-chamber view in females, were significantly correlated with BMI. All RV variables were significantly correlated with BMI in 20-30-year-old subjects. All RV variables except RVD3 and above-aortic valve in short-axis view (proximal) were significantly correlated with BMI in 35-55-year-old subjects. All RV parameters were significantly correlated with body surface area, except for RVD and in 20-35-year-old subjects. CONCLUSIONS: RV echocardiographic values must be adjusted to anthropometric characteristics for proper diagnosis and management of cardiac disorders.