Intermediate
Technical
IVT
systole
Pronunciation: SIS-toe-lee
The contraction phase of the cardiac cycle when blood is pumped from the heart chambers.
Full Definition
Systole is the contraction phase of the cardiac cycle during which the ventricles contract to eject blood into the pulmonary and systemic circulation. Ventricular systole begins with closure of the mitral and tricuspid valves (producing S1) and ends with closure of the aortic and pulmonary valves (producing S2). Systolic function is commonly assessed by measuring ejection fraction and wall motion on echocardiography. Systolic blood pressure represents the peak pressure during ventricular contraction.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from systolic dysfunction, which refers to impaired contractile function during systole.
In Context
- "The harsh systolic murmur was heard best at the right upper sternal border." — physical examination note
- "Systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve was observed on echocardiography." — echocardiogram report
Also known as
ventricular contraction
cardiac ejection
Contrasted with
diastole
Don't confuse with
diastole
systolic dysfunction