Assessing Right Ventricular Function in the Perioperative Setting, Part I: Echo-Based Measurements

This article explores the growing significance of right ventricular (RV) function, particularly in perioperative settings. The right ventricle plays a crucial role in predicting morbidity and mortality, especially in cardiac surgeries. Right ventricular failure is associated with high in-hospital mortality, making accurate assessment vital. The article discusses echocardiographic evaluation, emphasizing both qualitative and quantitative measures, including tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, fractional area change, and myocardial strain imaging. Understanding RV pathophysiology is essential for effective diagnosis and management, particularly in dynamic perioperative conditions influenced by ventilation, anesthesia, and extracorporeal circulation.