Capability of the right ventricle
Dobell, A.R.
Canadian Journal of Cardiology 4(1): 12-16
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0828-282X PMID: 3282626 Document Number: 316835
This article reviews the limitations of the right ventricle in certain clinical settings. There is doubt whether the right ventricle can do systemic work for a lifetime. The right ventricle maintains its output with difficulty after an acute increase in pulmonary vascular resistance. Under certain conditions a reasonable life can be pursued without a right ventricle and systemic blood draining directly into the lungs.