What condition is indicated by elevated pulmonary artery wedge pressure?

Elevated pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is indicative of left-sided heart failure. PAWP reflects the pressure in the left atrium and is used to assess left ventricular function and preload. When the left side of the heart is weakened or unable to pump effectively, as seen in left-sided heart failure, blood backs up into the pulmonary circulation, causing an increase in PAWP.

In left-sided heart failure, the heart's ability to manage the incoming blood flow is compromised, leading to higher pressures in the pulmonary circulation. Symptoms associated with this condition may include pulmonary congestion and edema, which is critical for diagnosis and management. Monitoring PAWP can help clinicians adjust treatments accordingly to improve cardiac output and alleviate symptoms.

Understanding the role of PAWP is essential for assessing heart function and recognizing underlying conditions, particularly in patients presenting with symptoms such as dyspnea and orthopnea, which are common in left-sided heart failure.