Study of systolic pressure variation (SPV) in presence of mechanical ventilation

Systolic pressure variation (SPV) and its components (dUp and dDown) have been demonstrated to be of interest in assessing preload in mechanically ventilated patients. The aim of this paper is to analyse the sensitivity of these variables to preload and volemic changes during mechanical ventilation in different conditions of the cardiovascular system. Computer simulation experiments have been done using a modular lumped parameter model of the cardiovascular system. The effect of mechanical ventilation has been reproduced operating on intrathoracic pressure. Experiments have been performed varying preload through filling pressure. Sensitivity of SVP, dUp and dDown is described varying separately left ventricular elastance (Ev), systemic arterial resistance (Ras) and systemic arterial compliance (Cas). The sensitivity of SPV and dDown to preload and filling pressure is appreciable for high values of Ev and for a wide variation of Ras. Preliminary clinical data concerning the three parameters show good correlation with simulation results.