Pulmonary Hypertension Program

Srinivas Murali, M.D., one of the world's leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension and congestive heart failure, evaluates a patient's clinical condition in the outpatient Gerald McGinnis Cardiovascular Institute.

About Us

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PH) is a progressive and incurable disease of the pulmonary vasculature, characterized by profound vasoconstriction and structural changes in the small pulmonary muscular arteries. Progressive elevations in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance ultimately lead to right ventricular failure and death. PH can result from primary involvement of the small and medium-sized pulmonary arteries or secondary involvement associated with a variety of diseases affecting different organ systems. Although the prognosis for patients suffering from PH is poor, recent advances in the understanding of pathophysiology have facilitated the development of new treatments which have improved clinical outcomes.

Led by Srinivas Murali, M.D., Allegheny General Hospital’s PH program is a center of excellence for the diagnosis and treatment of PH. The program team members work closely with each patient to ensure individualized, comprehensive care. Patients referred to this multidisciplinary program undergo a step-wise evaluation to determine the etiology, severity and prognosis of their disease. Advanced imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging and myocardial tissue Doppler imaging are routinely used to evaluate right ventricular dysfunction due to PH. AGH’s PH program is the only program in the region that uses these advanced imaging techniques in the evaluation of PH patients.

After diagnosis, the PH team applies a comprehensive patient education system for the patient and their family. Appropriate evidence-based treatment options are discussed in detail and implemented. Referring physicians are contacted in order to maintain continuity of care and often to develop a congruent care plan.

The McGinnis Cardiovascular Institute at Allegheny General is the only center in the region with the capability of utilizing Cardiac MRI to aid in the diagnosis and assessment of Pulmonary Hypertension.