Comparison of Left Versus Right Ventricular Contraction Profile in Failing and Non-Failing Isolated Human Myocardium

The left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) of human heart demonstrate significant differences in embryology, form, and function. RV dysfunction may develop in association with LV dysfunction via multiple mechanisms. Conversely, RV pressure overload, as may occur with pulmonary hypertensive states, may compromise LV function. Our objective was to investigate the relationship of LV to RV contractile performance and examine the influence of heart failure (HF) on these relationships. Myocardial LV and RV trabeculae were dissected from non-failing (NF) and end-stage failing human hearts.