Cardiac Output
Also written as: CO — Cardiac Output
The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate.
Full Definition
Cardiac output represents the total volume of blood pumped by the heart each minute and is a fundamental measure of cardiac function. It is calculated by multiplying stroke volume (the amount of blood ejected with each heartbeat) by heart rate. In congenital heart disease, cardiac output may be affected by structural abnormalities, shunting, or ventricular dysfunction. Normal cardiac output varies with age, body size, and physiological state. Assessment methods include echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and thermodilution techniques.
Usage
Usage note: Usually measured in liters per minute (L/min). May be indexed to body surface area as cardiac index (CI).
In Context
- "The patient's cardiac output was severely reduced following the acute rejection episode." — Post-transplant monitoring note
- "Inotropic support was initiated to optimize cardiac output prior to stage II palliation." — Intensive care unit note