1. What is Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure (MPAP)?

Definition: MPAP is the average pressure in the pulmonary artery during one cardiac cycle.

Purpose: It's an important hemodynamic measurement used to assess pulmonary hypertension and right heart function.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( MPAP \) — Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure (mmHg)
• \( PASP \) — Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure (mmHg)
• \( PADP \) — Pulmonary Artery Diastolic Pressure (mmHg)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the fact that diastole lasts approximately twice as long as systole in the cardiac cycle.

3. Importance of MPAP Measurement

Details: Normal MPAP is 8-20 mmHg. Values >25 mmHg at rest indicate pulmonary hypertension. MPAP helps in diagnosing and monitoring pulmonary vascular diseases.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter PASP and PADP values obtained from right heart catheterization or echocardiography. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between MPAP and PAWP?
A: MPAP is the mean pressure in the pulmonary artery, while PAWP (Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure) estimates left atrial pressure.

Q2: How accurate is this formula?
A: This is the standard clinical formula, though direct measurement during catheterization is more accurate.

Q3: Can I use echocardiography values?
A: Yes, but echo-estimated pressures may differ from catheterization values by ±10 mmHg.

Q4: What if I only have MPAP from catheterization?
A: You don't need this calculator - you already have the direct measurement!

Q5: When is MPAP most clinically useful?
A: For diagnosing pulmonary hypertension, assessing right heart function, and monitoring treatment response.