[Hemodynamic studies during temporary, unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery (author's transl)]

During pre-operative evaluation of 35 patients prior to pulmonary resection, pressure measurements in the right heart and pulmonary circulation were performed. In addition to pressure values, pulmonary ventilation and partial pressures of the blood gases were assessed before and during unilateral occlusion of the pulmonary artery at rest and during exercise. Statistically significant increased values from regression analysis were obtained for mean pulmonary artery pressure, right ventricular end-diastolic pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricular work. The results show that plethysmorgraphic and ergometric studies as well as their combination with blood gas analysis, are not indicative of changes in right ventricular or pulmonary arterial hemodynamics. Prior to pulmonary resection, catheterization should be performed at rest and during exercise to assess these variables.