The primary function of the left ventricle is to pump oxygenated blood into the systemic circulation, delivering oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary arteries, and the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs, while the right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body.
Aortic stenosis is a common valve disorder that often requires surgical intervention, including procedures where a cardiovascular perfusionist is involved. It involves narrowing of the aortic valve, which impedes blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. While mitral regurgitation is also common and may require intervention, aortic stenosis is frequently noted in surgical contexts.
A significant myocardial infarction can lead to cardiogenic shock, a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, leading to severe hypotension and organ failure. It typically does not decrease heart rate, increase systemic vascular resistance, or improve myocardial contractility.
Chronic hypoxia can lead to myocardial ischemia and infarction because the heart muscle is not receiving enough oxygen over time. This condition compromises myocardial health and can eventually result in tissue damage. It does not improve myocardial health or increase contractility and does not decrease oxygen demand.
Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in the cardiovascular system by inducing vasodilation, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. It does not increase blood pressure, cause vasoconstriction, or enhance platelet aggregation.
