Presentation
History of cough. No cardiac symptoms at this presentation.
Patient Data
Small electronic device noted in left lower lobe pulmonary artery branch on PA and lateral images, is consistent with an implantable pulmonary artery pressure monitor.
Case Discussion
An implantable pulmonary artery pressure monitor is a small electronic device that is inserted into the pulmonary artery via cardiac catheterization, monitored remotely and used in the management of congestive heart failure 1.
This device improves quality of life in NYHA class III patients by reducing heart failure admissions 2 as direct monitoring of pulmonary artery pressures allows for titration of medications 3,4 and proactive medical care.
This small electronic device is distinctive given its position in the pulmonary artery branches.
The left pulmonary artery is preferred as it provides the most vertical and posterior segment for insertion. A posterior branch is desired as it allows for more reliable measurement of left atrial pressures.