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pulmonary vascular resistance
Resistance to blood flow through the pulmonary circulation, measured in Wood units.
Full Definition
Pulmonary vascular resistance represents the resistance to blood flow through the pulmonary vasculature, calculated as the pressure gradient across the pulmonary circulation divided by cardiac output. Normal values are less than 3 Wood units (240 dyn⋅s⋅cm⁻⁵). Elevated PVR is significant in cardiac surgery as it affects right heart function and surgical outcomes. Conditions such as pulmonary hypertension, left heart disease, and certain congenital anomalies can increase PVR, requiring specific anesthetic and surgical management strategies.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PVR. Distinguish from systemic vascular resistance (SVR).
In Context
- "The patient's elevated pulmonary vascular resistance of 8 Wood units precluded heart transplantation." — Pre-operative evaluation
- "Inhaled nitric oxide was used to reduce pulmonary vascular resistance during the procedure." — Anesthesia record
Also known as
PVR
Don't confuse with
systemic vascular resistance
SVR