Windkessel effect
Windkessel Effect
The Windkessel Effect (pronunciation: /ˈvɪnd.kɛsəl ɪˈfɛkt/) is a term used in physiology and cardiology to describe the effect of the large arteries in the systemic circulation. The term originates from the German words 'Windkessel', meaning 'air chamber', and 'Effect', which refers to the result or consequence of a particular action or phenomenon.
Etymology
The term 'Windkessel' is derived from the German words 'Wind', meaning 'air', and 'Kessel', meaning 'chamber'. The term was first used in the 19th century to describe a device used in fire engines to minimize the pulsation of water flow. In the context of cardiovascular physiology, the Windkessel Effect refers to the function of the large arteries, particularly the aorta, in dampening the pulsatile nature of the blood flow ejected from the heart.
Explanation
The Windkessel Effect is a phenomenon that occurs due to the elastic properties of the aorta and large arteries. When the heart pumps blood into the aorta, the aortic walls stretch to accommodate the volume of blood. This stretching stores potential energy, which is then converted into kinetic energy as the aortic walls recoil, pushing the blood forward into the systemic circulation. This effect helps to maintain a relatively constant blood flow despite the pulsatile nature of the heart's output.
Related Terms
- Arterial Compliance: The ability of a blood vessel to expand and contract with changes in pressure.
- Pulse Pressure: The difference between the systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
- Stroke Volume: The amount of blood pumped by the left ventricle of the heart in one contraction.
- Cardiac Output: The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Windkessel effect
- Wikipedia's article - Windkessel effect
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