hemodynamically significant
Medical condition causing measurable impairment of blood circulation and cardiac function.
Full Definition
Hemodynamically significant refers to a pathological condition that produces clinically meaningful alterations in blood flow, cardiac output, or systemic circulation. In emergency cardiology, this term describes conditions that affect the heart's ability to maintain adequate organ perfusion, such as severe valvular disease, large myocardial infarctions, or significant arrhythmias. Assessment includes vital signs, clinical symptoms (chest pain, dyspnea, altered mental status), and objective measures like cardiac output, blood pressure, and end-organ function. The designation guides treatment urgency and intervention choices, as hemodynamically significant conditions typically require immediate therapeutic intervention to prevent cardiovascular collapse or organ failure.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; avoid overuse in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The pericardial effusion was hemodynamically significant, requiring immediate pericardiocentesis." — Cardiology consultation note
- "Although the ventricular tachycardia was brief, it was not hemodynamically significant." — Telemetry monitoring report