Right heart ventriculography Health Article

Definition

Right heart ventriculography is a study of the right chambers (atrium and ventricle) of the heart. This test obtains measurements of pressure, oxygen, and cardiac output through a catheter (thin flexible tube).

Occasionally, the right chambers also need to be seen. This can be done by injecting contrast material through the catheter into the right side of the heart and taking a rapid succession of x-rays to capture images of blood flow.

Alternative Names

Angiography - right heart

How the test is performed

A mild sedative will be given 30 minutes before the procedure. A cardiologist will insert a catheter into a vein in your neck or groin after cleansing the site and numbing the area with a local anesthetic.

When the catheter is in place, contrast material ("dye") is injected to allow the size and shape of the heart's chambers to be seen on x-ray.

The procedure will last one to several hours.

How to prepare for the test

You will not be allowed to eat or drink for 6 - 8 hours before the test. The procedure takes place in the hospital. Generally, you will be admitted the morning of the procedure, but in some cases, you may need to be admitted the night before.

A health care provider will explain the procedure and its risks. You must sign a consent form.

How the test will feel

A vein in your neck or groin will be used for threading the catheter into your heart. You will be given a local anesthesia where the catheter is inserted, and the only sensation should be one of pressure at the site.

Why the test is performed

Right-heart angiography is performed to detect the cause of abnormal blood flow through the right side of the heart.

Normal Values

See Swan-Ganz catheterization.

What abnormal results mean

Weakened pumping function of the right ventricle might be detected. This could be due to numerous causes. Rarely, right atrial abnormalities such as atrial myxoma may be found. Abnormal pressures or volumes, abnormalities of the valve on the right side of the heart, and abnormal connections between the right and left side of the heart may be discovered.

What the risks are

Risks of the procedure are cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac tamponade, trauma to the vein or artery, low blood pressure, infection, embolism from blood clots at the tip of the catheter, reaction to contrast medium, hemorrhage, stroke, and heart attack.

Special considerations

This test may be combined with coronary angiography.