Peri-operative assessment of right heart function: role of echocardiography

The right heart contributes significantly to overall cardiac function. Right ventricular (RV) haemodynamics and function have been defined to be physiologically different from the left ventricle, and yet independently associated with outcomes in a spectrum of conditions. In particular, RV function has been shown to influence prognosis of patients undergoing surgery. The assessment of right heart function during the intra-operative and immediate postoperative periods plays an important role in the clinical management of patients having surgery. While a number of techniques are available for the assessment of the right heart intra-operatively, echocardiography remains the prime choice being least invasive, relatively safe, readily accessible and cost-effective. Advancements in the field of echocardiographic have improved ability to assess right heart function. This review examines the role echocardiography and advances in this imaging modality in the assessment of right heart function within the peri-operative setting.