Circulatory System Concepts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the cardiovascular system and its functioning.

Mean Circulatory Filling Pressure

A theoretical measure of pressure in the systemic circuit when flow is stopped, influenced primarily by blood volume and peripheral venous tone.

Closed Circuit

A continuous circulation of blood within the body where it is pumped by the heart through arteries, capillaries, and veins.

Arterial Pressure

The highest blood pressure found in the aorta and large arteries due to the forceful contraction of the left ventricle.

Capillary Pressure

Pressure that decreases as blood moves into the capillaries, allowing for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste.

Venous Return

The process by which blood returns to the heart, primarily operating under low pressure and relying on muscle contractions and valves.

Pressure Gradients

Differences between high arterial pressure and low venous pressure that ensure continuous movement of blood throughout the body.

Compliance

The ability of a compartment, such as the heart or blood vessels, to stretch and accommodate changes in volume per unit of pressure.

Total Cardiac Output

The amount of blood the heart pumps in a minute, influenced by central venous pressure and filling volume.

Resistance

The opposition to blood flow through a compartment, measured in mm Hg/L/min.

Peripheral Venous Tone

The degree of constriction or dilation in peripheral venous vessels that influences venous return and mean circulatory filling pressure.

Mean Circulatory filling pressure is driven mainly by..

Circulating blood volume and Peripheral venous vessel tone