Anaes SAQs · Applied cardiovascular & respiratory physiology
The cardiac output and the Frank-Starling mechanism
Primary physiology — the CO = SV x HR; the preload, the contractility, the afterload, the heart rate; the Frank-Starling curve (the stroke volume rises with the preload); the venous return dependence; and the positive-pressure ventilation raising the right atrial pressure and reducing the venous return.
On this page
Study tools
Target exams
ANZCAFRCAABAEDAIC
Prompt
Define the cardiac output, describe its four determinants, and explain the Frank-Starling mechanism and its relevance to the anaesthetic hypotension.
Question
Define the cardiac output, describe its four determinants, and explain the Frank-Starling mechanism and its relevance to the anaesthetic hypotension.
References3ShowHide
- [1]Miller A. Energy, flow and pressure in the cardiovascular system. Anaesthesia, 2026.PMID 42157570
- [2]Mirus M, et al. Hemodynamic monitoring: basic principles. J Clin Monit Comput, 2026.PMID 41493520
- [42157571]Bersten AD, Soni N (eds) Oh's Intensive Care Manual. 8th edition, Elsevier, 2018.