Pressure Volume System for Management of Heart Failure and Valvular Heart Disease

To introduce the reader to the basics of pressure-volume (PV) analysis, its current role in management of heart failure and valvular disease, and the possibilities for future use.

The recent introduction of FDA-approved miniaturized conductance catheters that can produce PV loops in the clinical setting has set the stage for the translation of this important research technique into clinical practice. The use of these catheters has shed important insights into the pathophysiology of many common conditions associated with heart failure including heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and right heart failure and has been utilized to assist in optimization of lead placement during cardiac resynchronization therapy. The use of PV loops has enhanced our understanding and diagnosis of common conditions associated with heart failure. In addition, it has shown promise as an adjunct to therapeutic procedures. Future directions may include the use of PV loops in the management of patients with heart failure requiring mechanical circulatory support and to help predict the utility of percutaneous valvular interventions.