A case of Effusive-Constrictive Chronic Pericarditis (and Pericardiectomy)

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The baseline respiratory variations of the trans-mitral peak E wave velocity (Figure 17) are borderline for constrictive pericarditis (31% increase at the first expiratory beat), but increase to a greatly significant 63% during leg elevation (by increasing venous return and RV-LV preload) (Figure 18). Respiratory variability of the tricuspid E wave is also significant (81%) (Figure 19). An associate finding is a marked respiratory variability of the RVOT flow velocity (Figure 20).

Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transmitral flow, normal respiration
Figure 17. Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transmitral flow, normal respiration
Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transmitral flow, leg elevation
Figure 18. Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transmitral flow, leg elevation
Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transtricuspid flow
Figure 19. Apical 4-chamber pulsed Doppler transtricuspid flow
Parasternal short axis pulsed Doppler RVOT flow
Figure 20. Parasternal short axis pulsed Doppler RVOT flow

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