Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) is an echocardiographic measurement evaluating right ventricular (RV) systolic function by measuring the longitudinal motion of the tricuspid annulus towards the apex. It is a simple, highly reproducible "workhorse" parameter used to detect RV dysfunction.
Measure using M-mode echocardiography in the apical 4-chamber view.
Significance: Measures RV longitudinal shortening, which is a key component of right ventricular function.
Clinical Utility: Used in assessing pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and following cardiac surgery.
Interpretation: While a classic cutoff for abnormality is 17-18, modern guidelines use graded severity ranges (normal, mild, moderate, severe).
Advantages/Limitations: It is easy to perform, but it is angle-dependent and may not reflect global RV function when regional wall abnormalities exist.
TAPSE is highly valued for its prognostic utility, as reduced values are associated with poorer outcomes in conditions like acute pulmonary embolism