Catheterization of the Left Side of the Heart

Abstract
CATHETERIZATION of the left side of the heart1 2 3 4 has made possible a variety of physiologic investigations5 6 7 8 of the heart and circulation. In addition, measurements of pressures in the left side of the heart have been found invaluable in the precise characterization of lesions of the mitral and of the aortic valve. Such studies have also facilitated the clinical assessment of adult patients with acquired heart disease in whom the results of the usual clinical examinations and right-sided catheterization leave the diagnosis in doubt. In the present report the usefulness of catheterization of the left side of the heart is demonstrated . . .