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Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP)

A Diagnostic Catheterization & Hemodynamics term on the RCIS exam blueprint, defined for cath lab and EP clinicians.

The distal balloon is inflated with approximately 1.5 mL of air, allowing the catheter tip to safely "wedge" into a distal branch of the pulmonary artery. Inflation occludes forward flow from the right heart, creating a static, continuous column of blood between the catheter tip and the pulmonary veins. Consequently, the pressure recorded at the distal port equilibrates with, and serves as a highly accurate indirect surrogate for, left atrial pressure (LAP) and LVEDP. Normal PCWP ranges from 6 to 12 mmHg.

Domain: Diagnostic Catheterization & Hemodynamics · Blueprint: RCIS exam guide

Related RCIS terms

Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure (LVEDP) Pulmonary Artery Pressure (PAP) Right Atrial Pressure (RAP) Right Ventricular Pressure (RVP) Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR)

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Cardiac Codex is an independent study tool published by MdoubleA LLC, not affiliated with or endorsed by CCI or any certifying body. This glossary entry is exam-preparation information, not medical advice or a substitute for clinical judgment. Always verify current clinical practice against primary sources and institutional protocol.