Standardization of Baseline and Provocative Invasive Hemodynamic Protocols for the Evaluation of Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Contemporary hemodynamic testing intersects with many aspects of cardiovascular disease management. There is a growing understanding that accurate diagnosis, phenotyping, and management of cardiogenic shock, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, and pulmonary hypertension, and left ventricular assist device support, require both baseline and provocative invasive hemodynamic testing, and often serial measurements. However, there is limited consensus regarding the standardization and interpretation of hemodynamic data. Provocative hemodynamic studies-whether related to volume, drugs, exercise, or device speed-are similarly nonuniform. A frequent limitation to their routine use relates to a lack of concise information regarding provocative study protocols. The aim of this scientific statement is to provide the evidence and rationale underlying best practices for static and provocative right heart catheterization, as well as actionable protocols to standardize their practice. In addition to outlining optimal resting right heart catheterization assessment, indications, and methods for vasodilator challenges to assess pulmonary hypertension reversibility in heart failure, this scientific statement includes discussion on volume challenges, invasive exercise hemodynamic testing, and vasodilator testing for acute pulmonary hypertension. Ramp, reverse-ramp, and exercise studies in patients with left ventricular assist devices are also detailed to help guide care and aid assessment for recovery. The utility and practical application of temporal changes in invasive hemodynamics are covered, from cardiogenic shock to remote patient monitoring. The standardization and advancement of invasive hemodynamic assessment in heart failure represent crucial steps toward optimizing patient outcomes. Continued collaboration across disciplines, enhanced focus on standardization, and investment in emerging technologies are crucial for bridging these gaps and driving innovation.