ventricular interdependence
Mechanical interaction between left and right ventricles through the shared interventricular septum and pericardium.
Full Definition
Ventricular interdependence refers to the mechanical interaction between the left and right ventricles through their shared interventricular septum, pericardial constraint, and series coupling of the circulation. This phenomenon means that changes in the loading conditions, volume, or function of one ventricle directly affect the performance of the other ventricle. In cardiac anesthesia, understanding ventricular interdependence is crucial for managing patients with right heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or during mechanical circulatory support. Acute changes in right ventricular afterload can shift the septum toward the left ventricle, reducing left ventricular filling and cardiac output through direct mechanical effects.
In Context
- "Ventricular interdependence explained the acute decrease in cardiac output when pulmonary vascular resistance increased." — Case discussion
- "The echocardiogram demonstrated septal shift consistent with ventricular interdependence in this patient with acute right heart failure." — Echocardiography report