Stroke volume

Definition

Stroke volume is the amount of blood ejected by the left ventricle of the heart during each contraction. It is a critical measure in understanding cardiac function and overall cardiovascular health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stroke volume is typically measured in milliliters per beat (mL/beat).
2. It is influenced by three primary factors: preload, afterload, and contractility.
3. Medications like beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors can affect stroke volume by altering heart rate or vascular resistance.
4. An increase in stroke volume can improve cardiac output, which is essential for treating heart failure.
5. Decreased stroke volume can lead to inadequate tissue perfusion and may exacerbate conditions like hypertension and angina.

Review Questions

• What are the primary factors that influence stroke volume?
• How do antihypertensive drugs impact stroke volume?
• Why is increasing stroke volume beneficial for patients with heart failure?

Related terms

Cardiac Output:

The total volume of blood the heart pumps per minute.

Preload:

The initial stretching of cardiac myocytes prior to contraction.

Afterload:

The pressure against which the heart must work to eject blood during systole.