Hemodynamic monitoring in heart failure and pulmonary hypertension: From analog tracings to the digital age

Core Tip

Core tip: Hemodynamic monitoring forms the cornerstone of heart failure (HF) and pulmonary hypertension diagnosis and management. We review invasive hemodynamic monitors including a number of implantable devices that can allow for ambulatory determination of a variety of intracardiac pressures. These implantable devices have afforded clinicians an opportunity for objective determination of a patient’s volume status and pulmonary pressures. Devices such as the CardioMEMS and thoracic impedance monitors are supported by a body of evidence that show the potential to reduce HF related morbidity. Clinicians should start to familiarize themselves with their use and expect further development and refinement in the future.