Right ventricular dysfunction in multiple trauma victims

We studied 17 victims of multiple trauma and found that right ventricular function can be reliably monitored at the bedside using the thermodilution method. In addition, we noted that right ventricular dysfunction occurred early in victims of major trauma without affecting the left ventricular function. If right ventricular function does not improve, the patient is likely to die. Further studies are needed to determine if early intervention aimed at improving right ventricular function can improve survival.