Right Ventricular Failure

Abstract

Perioperative right ventricular (RV) failure is a complication associated with significant risk and an increase in the morbidity and mortality of patients. Thorough knowledge of the anatomy and the complex physiology of the normal right ventricle (RV) is crucial to advance in the diagnosis and management of this syndrome. It is important to understand when the RV is underperforming because early intervention allows us to determine the precipitating events and prevent further deterioration. One must review the anatomical and physiologic characteristics of the normal RV, the pathophysiology of RV failure, and the management recommendations.