Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pulmonary artery catheter
Invasive monitoring device inserted through central veins to measure cardiac output and pulmonary pressures.
Full Definition
A pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), also known as a Swan-Ganz catheter, is a balloon-tipped, flow-directed catheter inserted through a central vein and advanced through the right heart into the pulmonary artery. It provides continuous measurement of right-sided pressures, cardiac output, and derived hemodynamic parameters. In cardiac surgery, PACs help guide fluid management, assess ventricular function, and monitor response to vasoactive medications.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as PAC or referred to by brand name Swan-Ganz.
In Context
- "A pulmonary artery catheter was placed for hemodynamic monitoring during the complex procedure." — Operative report
- "Cardiac output measured via pulmonary artery catheter remained stable throughout surgery." — Anesthetic record
Also known as
Swan-Ganz catheter
PA catheter
right heart catheter
Contrasted with
non-invasive monitoring
external monitoring
Don't confuse with
central venous catheter
arterial line