Non-Invasive Estimation Of Left Ventricular Filling Pressures By Doppler Echocardiography

The determination of elevated ventricular filling pressure is important in order to optimize unloading therapy. Invasive measurement techniques are common but sometimes impractical in critical care patients. Central venous pressure (CVP) is easy to measure using a central venous catheter, which are used routinely in intensive care units (ICUs). In contrast, left ventricular (LV) filling pressures are more difficult to identify, necessitating insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), which is a very invasive procedure with potential complications and cannot be left more than 72 hours.