What does the distal port of the catheter measure when it is deflated in hemodynamics?

The distal port of a pulmonary artery catheter, when deflated, measures the pulmonary artery pressure (PAP). This measurement is crucial for assessing the hemodynamic status of a patient, particularly in conditions related to the heart and lungs. When the catheter is in the pulmonary artery, it allows for direct measurement of the pressures within that artery, reflecting the pressure the right ventricle must generate to pump blood through the pulmonary circulation.

The PAP reading is important for diagnosing and managing various conditions such as pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Understanding the pressures in the pulmonary system helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding treatment options.

While other pressures such as pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP), central venous pressure (CVP), and pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) provide essential information about different aspects of cardiac function and fluid status, they are associated with other ports and measurements within the catheter system. The distal port's primary function is specifically related to measuring the pressure in the pulmonary artery.