Swan-Ganz - Right Heart Catheterization

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How is the Test Performed?

The test can be performed at the bedside in an intensive care unit or in special procedure areas such as a cardiac catheterization laboratory. A mild sedative is sometimes given before the procedure.

A trained physician inserts the catheter into the right side of the heart through a large vein. Typically, a vein in the right side of the neck is used. However, the left side of the neck, either side of the groin, and other sites can be used.

Before inserting the catheter, the area that is used will be cleaned with sterile soap, injected with local anesthesia and an intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed using a needle. The catheter is inserted through the IV and then into the vein.

The catheter enters the right atrium (upper chamber) of the heart, flows through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle (lower chamber), through the pulmonary valve, and into the pulmonary artery. Measurements of the pressures in the pulmonary artery can be used to indirectly measure the function of the left ventricle.

The position of the catheter within the heart is confirmed by a chest X-ray or by fluoroscopy during the procedure and by monitoring devices that also read the pressures within the heart. During the procedure, the heart's rhythm is monitored continuously by electrocardiogram (ECG).