The utility of hemodynamic measurements acquired by pulmonary artery catheterization.
BACKGROUND
Concerns about the utility of pulmonary artery catheters (PAC) stimulated us to assess the impact of one of the parameters measured by the PAC, the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP), on our clinical practice.


METHODS
The PCWP was recorded at 4- to 6-hour intervals on 50 patients for the first 48 hours following aortic aneurysm repair. We then reviewed the patients' records looking for evidence that the PCWP measurements were used to guide therapy. For the purpose of the study, we anticipated the administration of diuretics for PCWP > or =218 mm Hg and volume resuscitation for PCWP < or =8 mm Hg. Data were correlated using Pearson rank correlation coefficient using a P < 0.05 to determine statistical significance.


RESULTS
Patients with PCWPs <8 mm Hg were more likely to be treated with volume resuscitation (P < 0.05). There was no other correlation between PCWP measurements and fluid or pharmacologic management.


CONCLUSIONS
Data derived from the PAC are infrequently used to guide therapy in patients who undergo abdominal aortic reconstructive surgery.
Mostafa
G
G
Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic and Foundation Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Kumar
M
M
Schlotthauer
J
J
Murray
M J
MJ
D000368:Aged; D002404:Catheterization; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011651:Pulmonary Artery; D011669:Pulmonary Wedge Pressure; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D019616:Thoracic Surgical Procedures; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures