Right Ventricular Failure

Question 1

What causes RVF

Answer 1

• LVF
• Pulmonary stenosis
• Lung disease

Question 2

What are the symptoms of RVF

Answer 2

• Peripheral oedema (up to abdo wall)
• Ascites
• Tiredness + fatigue (O2 exchange)
• Palpitations
• Fascial engorgement
• Tricuspid regurg - pulsation in neck + face
• Epistaxis - increase systemic capillary pressure
• Nocturia - fluids returning from legs whilst lying down
• ^^ JVP
• nausea, anorexia

Question 3

What are some DDx

Answer 3

• LVF

- Cor pulmonale

Question 4

What investigations would you do for RVF

Answer 4

ECG - ischaemia, HTN, arrhythmia
Bloods - FBC, U&E, LFT
BNP

Question 5

What is the treatment for RVF

Answer 5

• B-blockers - decrease mortality
• Loop diuretics
• Dopamine - increase contractility
• Vasopressor - norepinephrine (use in those intolerance ACEi + ARBs) –> vasoconstriction