Correlation between right ventricular function and exercise capacity in patients with chronic heart failure

Aim of this study to define a correlation between echocardiographic parameters of right ventricular (RV) function and exercise capacity in a group of patients with stable chronic heart failure (CHF). Methods 30 patients with CHF (age=58.3±13 years, 29 men), defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤0.45, had an echocardiographic examination followed by a 6-min walk test. RV function was evaluated by two parameters: Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and tricuspid lateral annular systolic velocity derived by tissue Doppler (S’). Results Sixteen patients (53%) had ischemic CHF. 22 patients (73%) were in NYHA class II and 7 in class III. Average distance traveled in walk test was 393±135 m. Mean LVEF was 43+11%. 20 patients had an S’≤10cm/ s and 9 had a TAPSE≤16mm. There was a significant positive correlation between TAPSE and the distance traveled during the walk test (r=0.43; p=0.02). There was no correlation between S’ and exercise capacity (p=0.20). Conclusion TAPSE is a significant determinant of physical performance in CHF patients.