Noninvasive Determination of Cerebral Tissue Oxygenation in Pulmonary Hypertension

Oxygenation and hemodynamic parameters will be assessed during RHC according to standard procedures. All measurements will be noted as usual for PH assessment including: at rest breathing room air, during an oxygen challenge, under vasodilator testing with NO and/or during exercise. Room air, supplemental oxygen and NO will be applied over common breathing mask while patient is in a supine position. Oxygen will be taken as usual from the common adjustable hospital wall access, NO will be taken according to usual clinical practice during RHC from a gas cylinder connected to a reservoir, where adequate ppm concentration can be regulated. A dose of 40 ppm NO will be used according to common practise. Oxygen delivery to maintain the peripheral oxygen saturation between 88% and 90% will be adjusted over a 3 minute period of time.

For study purpose, patients will have additional non-invasive NIRS assessment. The measurement will take place during right heart catheterization.