1. What is Mean PA Pressure?

The mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) represents the average pressure in the pulmonary artery during one cardiac cycle. It's an important hemodynamic measurement used in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard equation:

Where:

• \( dPAP \) — Diastolic pulmonary artery pressure (mmHg)
• \( sPAP \) — Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (mmHg)

Explanation: The formula approximates the mean pressure by adding one-third of the pulse pressure (sPAP-dPAP) to the diastolic pressure.

3. Importance of mPAP Calculation

Details: mPAP is crucial for diagnosing pulmonary hypertension (defined as mPAP >20 mmHg at rest). It helps assess right heart function and guide treatment decisions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter systolic and diastolic PA pressures in mmHg. Values should be obtained from right heart catheterization for most accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is mPAP important?
A: mPAP is the primary measurement used to define pulmonary hypertension and assess its severity.

Q2: What's the normal range for mPAP?
A: Normal mPAP is 14±3 mmHg at rest, with pulmonary hypertension defined as >20 mmHg.

Q3: How is mPAP measured clinically?
A: Gold standard is right heart catheterization, though echocardiography can estimate it.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: The 1/3 approximation works well for normal waveforms but may be less accurate with abnormal pressure waveforms.

Q5: When is direct measurement preferred?
A: In cases of suspected pulmonary hypertension or when precise measurements are needed for clinical decisions.