Despite the post-operative reduction of RV performance along the long axis suggested by TAPSE and PSV, the absence of a decrease in 3D RVEF leads to caution in the interpretation of these 2D and Doppler parameters after cardiac surgery, supporting the hypothesis of geometrical rather than functional changes in the right ventricle.

Pericardial effusion after cardiac surgery is common and its size and site are related to the type of surgery. Cardiac tamponade is rare and is more common in patients receiving oral anticoagulants. Echo-Doppler imaging is useful for the evaluation of pericardial fluid accumulations after cardiac surgery. It can identify effusions that herald cardiac tamponade.

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DLCO progressively worsens as CHF severity increases due to reduction in lung tissue participating to gas exchange (low VC and VA). In severe CHF, the few working alveolar-capillary units are the most efficient as shown by the high DM/VC. This is useful for maintaining gas exchange efficiency in severe CHF.

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PPM may be observed after TAVI and when present may be accompanied by less favorable changes in transvalvular hemodynamics, limited LV mass regression, persistent elevated LV filling pressure, and less improvement in clinical functional status.