Postural Changes During Right Heart Catheterization

Hemodynamic measurements obtained during pulmonary artery catheterization are essential for the diagnosis and classification of pulmonary hypertension. Traditionally, right heart catheterization (RHC) is done in the supine position. Cardiac output is known to change significantly based on position, due to the effects of gravity on venous return. There has not been a systematic investigation into these postural effects on pulmonary arterial pressures nor their effect on the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension. It is our intent to study the differences in measurements obtained during RHC when the patient is supine, seated, and standing.