ABSTRACT
An assessment of right ventricular dimensions and function is an essential part of the standard echo study, not only to detect primary right ventricular disorders but also because right ventricular size and function can reveal a great deal about disorders affecting other parts of the heart. This chapter describes how to image the right ventricle and how to evaluate the right ventricular dimensions, cavity size, wall thickness, global systolic function and regional systolic function. Distinguishing between right ventricular pressure and volume overload is also discussed.
