Global and regional wall motion analysis in the right ventricular free wall using digital angiography

A procedure used to evaluate the right ventricular function parameters during cardiac catheterization is described. The complete processing of right ventricular free-wall geometry and simultaneous pressure recordings is presented. The procedure to quantify regional wall motion in the right ventricular free wall is also emphasized. A quantitative assessment of the right ventricular free-wall function can be easily performed by using the proposed technique during routine diagnostic cardiac procedures. Furthermore, as the procedure only requires a right-sided catheterization, it can also be repeated in outpatients for serial investigations. When compared with similar analyses with radionuclide techniques, this approach offers the advantage of a superior geometric resolution and the benefit of simultaneous high-fidelity pressure recording.<>