Right ventricular normal function

Abstract

The evaluation of right ventricular (RV) morphology and function, although for many centuries forgotten or sidelined, is now recognized to be essential in cardiovascular diseases, as it can be involved in the physiopathology of many disorders. Therefore, appropriate knowledge of RV function in health and disease is mandatory for clinicians. In the present chapter we summarize the current available data on RV function starting with a brief description of anatomy as morphology is closely related to function. We then describe mechanical and haemodynamic aspects of RV contraction. Furtheremore, we discuss methods of assessing RV performance using end-systolic and end-diastolic pressure-volume relationships as well as RV haemodynamic coupling with the pulmonary circulation based on the concept of elastance. Regulatory mechanisms of RV function are also described.