Emax monitoring by aortic pressure waveform analysis

Emax- the maximal left ventricular elastance- is perhaps the best available scalar index of contractility. However, the conventional method for its measurement involves obtaining multiple ventricular pressure-volume loops at different loading conditions and is thus impractical. We previously proposed a more practical technique for tracking Emax from just a single beat of an aortic pressure waveform based on a lumped parameter model of the left ventricle and arteries. Here, we tested the technique against the conventional Emax measurement method in animals during inotropic interventions. Our results show that the estimated Emax changes corresponded fairly well to the reference changes, with a correlation coefficient of 0.793. With further development and testing, the technique could ultimately permit continuous and less invasive monitoring of Emax.