EFFECTS OF MOLSIDOMINE ON RIGHT VENTRICULAR-FUNCTION

Right ventricular (RV) function was evaluated using the pressure-volume relationship derived from electrocardiographic-gated equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography and RV pressure data measured with a Swan-Ganz catheter. Computerized methods were developed to collect data simultaneously from the gamma camera, electrocardiograph, and RV pressure transducer. Such data are rarely obtained by traditional contrast ventriculography. From the pressure curve and volume curve, a pressure-volume loop was generated from which RV work was calculated. This newly developed technique was assessed in five control subjects and 10 patients with advanced congestive heart failure. Despite maintenance of net work, the pressure-volume loop clearly shifted toward the lower left part of the pressure-volume plane in seven patients who had an end-diastolic volume of more than 90 ml after oral administration of the vasodilator molsidomine.