Right Ventricular (RV) Dysfunction

Right heart dysfunction remains a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery. Respiratory acidosis, particularly when accompanied by hypoxemia, plays a significant role in right heart failure, primarily by increasing right ventricular afterload through pulmonary vasoconstriction and elevated pulmonary arterial pressures. This phenomenon leads to increased right ventricular workload, causing dilation, decreased contractility, and ultimately right heart failure. The study aims to evaluate the effect of respiratory acidosis on right ventricular function after cardiac surgery.

This study plans to learn more about heart function among individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular, the investigators want to understand the different patterns of right ventricular response during rest and moderate- vs high-intensity exercise. By identifying patterns of right ventricular dysfunction, this study will help identify better treatments for patients with COPD in the future.

To capture observational data of the Abiomed Impella RP Flex in a real-world setting.