Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure Calculator

Calculate the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) using systolic and diastolic pressure measurements. This is an important hemodynamic parameter used in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension.

Enter the systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery in mmHg
Enter the diastolic pressure in the pulmonary artery in mmHg

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure (PASP) value in mmHg
  2. Enter the Pulmonary Artery Diastolic Pressure (PDAP) value in mmHg
  3. Review your inputs to ensure accuracy
  4. Click Calculate to see the mean pulmonary artery pressure and interpretation

Formula Used

mPAP = (PASP + 2 × PDAP) / 3

Where:

  • mPAP = Mean Pulmonary Artery Pressure (mmHg)
  • PASP = Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure (mmHg)
  • PDAP = Pulmonary Artery Diastolic Pressure (mmHg)

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A 65-year-old patient with suspected pulmonary hypertension undergoes right heart catheterization. The measured pressures are PASP = 45 mmHg and PDAP = 18 mmHg. Calculate the mean pulmonary artery pressure.

Given:

  • Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure (PASP) = 45 mmHg
  • Pulmonary Artery Diastolic Pressure (PDAP) = 18 mmHg

Calculation:

mPAP = (45 + 2 × 18) / 3

mPAP = (45 + 36) / 3

mPAP = 81 / 3

Result: 27 mmHg (indicating mild pulmonary hypertension)

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

  • Diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension
  • Monitoring treatment response in pulmonary vascular diseases
  • Assessment of right ventricular function
  • Preoperative evaluation for cardiac surgery

Key Benefits

  • Quick and accurate hemodynamic assessment
  • Standardized calculation method
  • Helps in staging pulmonary hypertension severity
  • Essential for clinical decision making

Common Mistakes & Tips

Always ensure pressures are entered in mmHg. Using kPa or other units without conversion will lead to incorrect results. Remember that 1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa.

Normal mean pulmonary artery pressure is typically 10-14 mmHg. Values above 25 mmHg suggest pulmonary hypertension. Always compare calculated results with normal reference ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Normal mean pulmonary artery pressure is typically 10-14 mmHg. Values between 15-20 mmHg are considered borderline, and values above 25 mmHg indicate pulmonary hypertension.

The formula is the same, but normal values differ by age. Pediatric normal values are typically lower. Consult age-specific reference ranges for accurate interpretation.

Mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) reflects pressure in the pulmonary artery, while pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) reflects left atrial pressure. The difference (mPAP - PCWP) helps assess pulmonary vascular resistance.

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions. The calculations provided are approximations and individual patient circumstances may vary.

References

Accuracy Notice

This calculator provides estimates based on standard hemodynamic formulas. Actual clinical interpretation should consider individual patient factors, measurement techniques, and other hemodynamic parameters. Always verify calculations with clinical judgment and additional diagnostic information.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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