Does testing for Pi(max) predict prognosis and improve risk stratification in patients with CHF?
Testing for maximal inspiratory pressure (Pi(max)) is a simple clinical tool that may improve risk stratification and selection for cardiac transplantation in CHF patients.
In patients with CHF, inspiratory muscle strength is reduced and emerges as a novel, independent predictor of prognosis. Because testing for Pi(max) is simple in clinical practice, it might serve as an additional factor to improve risk stratification and patient selection for cardiac transplantation.
Meyer et al. (2001) studied this question.