Cardiac output and the cardiac cycle

what is Cardiac output

The flow of blood from the heart into the circulation, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate.

what is Stroke volume

The volume of blood pumped from the left ventricle during each systolic contraction.

what is Preload

The degree of stretch in the ventricles before contraction.

what is Afterload

The pressure that the blood must overcome to be pumped out of the heart.

what is Venous flow

The flow of blood returning to the heart.

what are Heart valves

Structures that ensure blood flows through the heart in one direction, including the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves.

Ventricular pressure loop

The relationship between pressure and blood volume in the left ventricle during a cardiac cycle, illustrated by a loop that shows changes in pressure and volume.