arterial compliance
The ability of arteries to expand and contract in response to pressure changes during the cardiac cycle.
Full Definition
Arterial compliance, also termed arterial distensibility, measures the elastic properties of arterial walls and their ability to accommodate pulsatile blood flow from the heart. Reduced compliance, often due to aging or disease, increases pulse pressure and cardiac workload while decreasing coronary perfusion. Assessment methods include pulse wave velocity measurement, where faster velocities indicate stiffer, less compliant arteries. Arterial compliance is an important predictor of cardiovascular events and can be modified through lifestyle interventions and medications.
Usage
Usage note: Often inversely related to pulse wave velocity measurements.
In Context
- "Reduced arterial compliance contributes to isolated systolic hypertension in elderly patients." — Cardiology consultation
- "Pulse wave velocity measurement indicated decreased arterial compliance consistent with the patient's age." — Vascular assessment report