Pulmonary Venous Wedge Pressure (PVWP) is a medical term used to describe the pressure within the pulmonary capillaries and left atrium of the heart. It is also commonly known as Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP).
PVWP is measured to evaluate the functioning of the left side of the heart and to assess the pressure in the pulmonary circulation. It is an important parameter to diagnose and monitor patients with heart and lung diseases.
To measure PVWP, a catheter is inserted into the pulmonary artery through a blood vessel. The catheter is advanced into a branch of the pulmonary artery until it reaches the pulmonary capillaries. At this location, the catheter’s balloon is inflated, temporarily stopping the blood flow. The pressure is then measured and recorded. This pressure reflects the pressure within the left atrium which is in turn a reflection of the left ventricular end-diastolic pressure.
Elevated PVWP can occur due to various conditions such as congestive heart failure, mitral valve disease, or pulmonary hypertension. It can indicate impaired left ventricular function or increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Conversely, low PVWP may suggest hypovolemia or reduced cardiac output.
Monitoring PVWP is crucial in managing patients with heart failure as it provides important information for treatment decisions, such as adjusting fluid levels or prescribing medications. It is also used to guide interventions like vasodilator therapy or balloon valvuloplasty.
In summary, Pulmonary Venous Wedge Pressure is the pressure measured in the pulmonary capillaries and left atrium, providing valuable information about cardiac function and pulmonary circulation.
