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

Definition: MPAP is the average pressure in the pulmonary artery during the cardiac cycle, representing the driving force for blood flow through the lungs.

Purpose: It's a key 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 10-20 mmHg. Values >20 mmHg at rest indicate pulmonary hypertension, which can lead to right heart failure if untreated.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: How accurate is echocardiography for estimating MPAP?
A: Echocardiography provides estimates. Right heart catheterization remains the gold standard for accurate MPAP measurement.

Q3: When is MPAP measurement clinically important?
A: For diagnosing pulmonary hypertension, monitoring treatment response, and assessing right heart function in various cardiopulmonary diseases.

Q4: What factors can affect MPAP?
A: Altitude, lung diseases, left heart failure, pulmonary embolism, and certain medications can all influence MPAP.

Q5: How often should MPAP be monitored?
A: Frequency depends on the clinical condition, ranging from continuous monitoring in ICUs to periodic assessments in chronic cases.