right heart catheterization
Also written as: RHC — Right Heart Catheterization
Invasive diagnostic procedure measuring pressures and cardiac output in the right-sided cardiac chambers and pulmonary circulation.
Full Definition
Right heart catheterization is an invasive diagnostic procedure that involves advancing a catheter through venous access into the right atrium, right ventricle, and pulmonary arteries to measure intracardiac pressures, pulmonary vascular resistance, and cardiac output. This procedure is essential in the evaluation of pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and congenital heart disease prior to cardiothoracic surgery. The catheter typically measures right atrial pressure, right ventricular pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. These hemodynamic measurements guide surgical decision-making and help assess operability in complex cardiac and thoracic conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from general cardiac catheterization; specify right-sided when hemodynamic assessment is the primary goal rather than coronary evaluation.
In Context
- "Right heart catheterization demonstrated elevated pulmonary vascular resistance precluding heart transplant candidacy." — Cardiothoracic surgery evaluation report
- "The patient underwent right heart catheterization to assess hemodynamics before lung transplant evaluation." — Preoperative assessment documentation