Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
cardiac index
Cardiac output normalized to body surface area, expressed in L/min/m².
Full Definition
Cardiac index is a hemodynamic parameter that represents cardiac output adjusted for body surface area, typically measured in liters per minute per square meter (L/min/m²). Normal values range from 2.5-4.0 L/min/m². This measurement is particularly important in cardiac anesthesia as it provides a standardized way to assess cardiac function across patients of different sizes. Low cardiac index may indicate impaired ventricular function, while elevated values may suggest hyperdynamic circulation or measurement error.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from absolute cardiac output, which is not adjusted for body size.
In Context
- "The patient's cardiac index improved from 1.8 to 2.6 L/min/m² following inotropic support." — ICU progress note
- "Thermodilution measurements revealed a cardiac index of 3.2 L/min/m²." — Hemodynamic assessment
Also known as
CI
Don't confuse with
cardiac output