Right Heart Catheterisation

A medical procedure used to diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the right side of the heart. It involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into a vein, usually in the neck or groin, and threading it to the right side of the heart. 

To measure pressures in the right atrium, right ventricle, and pulmonary artery. This procedure provides valuable information about how well the heart is functioning and can guide treatment decisions. 

Patients may experience some discomfort during the procedure, particularly at the site where the catheter is inserted. Local anaesthesia is typically used to minimize pain, and many patients report only mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure. 

While right heart catheterization is generally safe, there are some potential risks and complications, including bleeding at the catheter insertion site, infection, damage to blood vessels or the heart, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and blood clots. Overall, the benefits of obtaining detailed information about heart function often outweigh the risks associated with the procedure.