aortic compliance
The ability of the aorta to distend and recoil in response to changes in blood pressure during the cardiac cycle.
Full Definition
Aortic compliance refers to the elastic properties of the aortic wall that allow it to stretch during systole and recoil during diastole, facilitating smooth blood flow and maintaining diastolic pressure. This property is crucial for normal cardiovascular physiology as it dampens pressure fluctuations and reduces cardiac workload. Reduced aortic compliance, often seen in aging, atherosclerosis, or after surgical repair with synthetic grafts, can lead to increased pulse pressure, elevated systolic pressure, and increased cardiac afterload. Assessment of aortic compliance is important when planning surgical interventions and predicting postoperative hemodynamics.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with aortic competence (valve function) or aortic capacitance.
In Context
- "Reduced aortic compliance following graft replacement contributed to the patient's elevated pulse pressure." — cardiology consultation
- "Preoperative assessment showed severely reduced aortic compliance consistent with advanced atherosclerotic disease." — preoperative evaluation