Optimizing the Pulmonary Hypertension Diagnostic Network in Belgium.

This doctoral project centers around the optimization of pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnostics. Firstly a predictive tool for post-capillary PH will be validated in a prospective multicenter observational study (Optiek study). The tool was designed using artificial intelligence and implements non-invasive patient information. Secondly the difference in lung water between post- and precapillary PH will be investigated (HELP-Preserved study). The accuracy of lung ultrasound in quantifying extravascular lung water will also be investigated. Thirdly a global care program and quality indicators will be developed to facilitate diagnostics and patient care for PH patients. Fourthly a registry for acute decompensated PH and group 3 PH will be designed. Finally clinical and physiological characteristics (including CMR and histopathology) predicting a worse hemodynamic outcome after PEA will be investigated.