Frank-Starling mechanism
The physiological principle that stroke volume increases with increased venous return and preload, up to an optimal point.
Full Definition
A fundamental cardiac physiological principle stating that the force of ventricular contraction is directly proportional to the initial length of cardiac muscle fibers, which corresponds to ventricular end-diastolic volume or preload. This mechanism allows the heart to automatically adjust its output to match venous return without external nervous control. In cardiac anesthesia, understanding this relationship is crucial for fluid management, as excessive preload can move the ventricle past the optimal point on the Frank-Starling curve, leading to reduced efficiency and potential pulmonary edema.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize Frank-Starling as it refers to the physiologists Otto Frank and Ernest Starling.
In Context
- "The Frank-Starling mechanism explains why moderate volume loading improved the patient's cardiac output." — Physiology discussion
- "TEE findings suggested the patient was operating on the descending limb of the Frank-Starling curve." — Intraoperative assessment