compliance
The ability of the ventricle to stretch and fill with blood, representing the change in volume per unit change in pressure during diastole.
Full Definition
A measure of ventricular distensibility that quantifies how easily the ventricle can expand to accommodate blood during diastolic filling. Compliance is the inverse of stiffness and is calculated as the change in ventricular volume divided by the change in ventricular pressure (ΔV/ΔP). Reduced ventricular compliance, or increased stiffness, leads to diastolic dysfunction and elevated filling pressures. In cardiac anesthesia, understanding compliance helps guide fluid management and identify patients at risk for pulmonary edema.
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with contractility, which refers to the strength of contraction rather than filling properties.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated poor ventricular compliance with elevated filling pressures despite adequate preload." — Hemodynamic assessment
- "Age-related changes in ventricular compliance may require modified anesthetic management." — Preoperative planning