Fundamental Assessment of Cardiac Function
In pressure-volume (PV) loop analysis ventricular pressure is plotted against volume throughout the cardiac cycle. The technique readily characterizes load-independent systolic and diastolic function as well as the degree of mechanical dyssynchrony.
We use PV analysis both in the clinical assessment of patients with heart failure or pulmonary hypertension and as a research tool in human and small and large animal studies. Particular projects include optimization of pacemaker timing and lead placement [device optimization], assessment of cardiac function in an animal heart transplant model [heart transplant], and assessment of novel cardiovascular devices. On the most basic physiologic level, we’re using PV loop analysis to explore the variety of manifestations of heart failure. The conventional definitions of heart failure with or without preserved systolic function are based on questionable foundations, and may ultimately prove to be of limited utility. We anticipate that the tools of PV loop analysis will yield a less artificial and more physiologic perspective, and lead to insights that ultimately translate to effective interventions across the spectrum of heart failure.
Steendijk et al. (2004)
