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
Gerbode defect
Gerbode defect is defined as abnormal shunting between the left ventricle and right atrium resulting from either a congenital defect or prior cardiac insults
