Measurement of right ventricular volume by conductance catheter in closed-chest pigs

Right ventricular volume can suitably be measured using a conductance catheter under steady state conditions. Conductance catheters were injected intravenously in seven closed-chest anesthetized pigs and electrodes were placed to cover the RV long axis. A negative response is observed for RV volume and alpha when volume is altered over wide range. Saline dilution technique was used to measure parallel conductance. The experimental procedure of the measurement is discussed.