A tool employed in the assessment of pulmonary hypertension, this calculation provides an estimated average pressure within the pulmonary arteries. It utilizes systolic and diastolic pulmonary artery pressure measurements to arrive at a single, representative value. For example, using a specific formula, an individual’s systolic and diastolic readings can be inputted to generate the estimated mean pressure.
Obtaining this calculated value is valuable in the diagnostic process and ongoing management of conditions affecting the pulmonary vascular system. It allows clinicians to quantitatively assess the severity of pulmonary hypertension, track disease progression, and evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Historically, the development of methods to accurately determine this pressure has significantly improved the understanding and treatment of pulmonary vascular diseases.
