Latest insights in therapeutic options for systemic right ventricular failure: a comparison with left ventricular failure

Heart. 2009 Jun;95(12):960-3. doi: 10.1136/hrt.2008.156265. Epub 2008 Nov 25.

Abstract

The number of adult patients with a systemic right ventricle (RV) is steadily increasing. Survival is relatively good in these patients, but deterioration of the systemic RV seems inevitable. Although therapeutic options for patients with LV failure are well established, their role in patients with systemic RV failure is often undefined. To appreciate the potency of LV failure therapy in patients with a systemic RV, insight into pathophysiology of systemic RV failure and into recent developments in therapeutic research are indispensible. This review provides these insights, and will facilitate and ameliorate therapeutic decision making in patients with a systemic RV.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Heart Failure / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Pacemaker, Artificial
  • Transposition of Great Vessels / surgery
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / therapy
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / etiology
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / physiopathology
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Right / therapy*

Substances

  • Adrenergic Antagonists
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors