Right heart failure: lights and shadows

Abstract

Right heart function is essential for overall heart health and plays a crucial role in the prognosis of patients with heart failure. A comprehensive assessment of the right ventricle (RV) that includes various clinical and hemodynamic parameters, as well as imaging techniques, provides important insights into the structure and function of the right heart. Advanced imaging methods, such as cardiac MRI, offer further clarity regarding the morphology and performance of the right heart. Interventional therapies have transformed treatment options and the prognosis for patients with advanced RV failure, and these therapies should be integrated into a comprehensive care plan. Ongoing research into the molecular and genetic factors contributing to right heart dysfunction is expected to reveal new therapeutic targets. Continued advancements in imaging and treatment options are vital for enhancing patient outcomes. In this review, we provide a detailed analysis of RV function, diagnosis, and therapy for RV failure.