Cardiac & Vascular Function Curves EXPLAINED

Cardiac Function and Venous Return Curves are plotted together to determine the equilibrium point where cardiac output (CO) equals venous return (VR)—this is the steady-state operating point of the cardiovascular system.

Cardiac Function Curve: Shows how CO increases with increasing right atrial pressure (RAP), due to the Frank-Starling mechanism.

Venous Return Curve: Shows how VR decreases as RAP increases, since higher RAP reduces the pressure gradient driving blood back to the heart.

The intersection of these curves represents the point where the heart and circulation are in balance. Changes in contractility, blood volume, or vascular resistance shift these curves and alter the equilibrium point.

Видео Cardiac & Vascular Function Curves EXPLAINED канала Medical Knowledge