Why left atrial v waves are taller than right atrial v waves?
Why left atrial v waves are taller than right atrial v waves?
v waves are passive atrial filling waves while ventricles are in systole.
- Left atrium is less compliant chamber
- Right atrial volume is more – it can accommodate more volume without raising its pressure .
LA empty into less compliant LV - RA empty into more compliant RV
Simpson’s method (left atrial appendage included)
Women (adult):
- maximum left atrial volume [mL]: 37-94 mL
- maximum left atrial volume/BSA [mL/m2]: 25-53 mL/m2
Men (adult):
- maximum left atrial volume [mL]: 42-115 mL
- maximum left atrial volume/BSA [mL/m2]: 25-56 mL/m2
Right atrium
Simpson’s method (right atrial appendage included)
Women (adult):
- maximum right atrial volume [mL]: 49-122 mL
- maximum right atrial volume/BSA [mL/m2]: 31-69 mL/m2
Men (adult):
- maximum right atrial volume [mL]: 59-158 mL
- maximum right atrial volume/BSA [mL/m2]: 32-79 mL/m2
Normal JVP – a wave > v wave
RA wave form – a wave > v wave
LA wave form – a wave = v wave or v is taller than a wave – due to less compliant LA which is emptying into less compliant LV