1. What is Pulmonary Artery Pulsatility Index?

Definition: PAPi is a hemodynamic parameter that assesses right ventricular function by measuring the pulsatility of pulmonary artery pressure relative to right atrial pressure.

Purpose: It helps clinicians evaluate right ventricular dysfunction, particularly in patients with heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( PAPi \) — Pulmonary artery pulsatility index (dimensionless)
• \( sPAP \) — Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (mmHg)
• \( dPAP \) — Diastolic pulmonary artery pressure (mmHg)
• \( RAP \) — Right atrial pressure (mmHg)

Explanation: The difference between systolic and diastolic PAP is divided by the right atrial pressure to assess right ventricular-pulmonary artery coupling.

3. Clinical Significance of PAPi

Details: A PAPi < 1.0 suggests significant right ventricular dysfunction, while values > 1.8 typically indicate preserved right ventricular function.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the systolic PAP, diastolic PAP, and right atrial pressure (all in mmHg). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal PAPi value?
A: Normal PAPi typically ranges between 1.8 and 3.0 in healthy individuals.

Q2: How is PAPi used clinically?
A: It helps predict outcomes in heart failure, assess right ventricular function in pulmonary hypertension, and guide therapy decisions.

Q3: What does a low PAPi indicate?
A: Low PAPi (<1.0) suggests impaired right ventricular function and is associated with worse clinical outcomes.

Q4: How are the pressure measurements obtained?
A: These are typically measured during right heart catheterization procedures.

Q5: Can PAPi be used for serial monitoring?
A: Yes, changes in PAPi over time can help track right ventricular function and response to treatment.