1. What is Cardiac Index?

Cardiac Index (CI) is a hemodynamic parameter that relates the cardiac output (CO) from the left ventricle in one minute to the body surface area (BSA). It is a normalized measure of cardiac output that accounts for differences in body size, making it a more precise indicator of cardiac performance than cardiac output alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Cardiac Index formula:

Where:

• \( CI \) — Cardiac Index (L/min/m²)
• \( CO \) — Cardiac Output (L/min)
• \( BSA \) — Body Surface Area (m²)

Explanation: This calculation normalizes cardiac output for body size, providing a more accurate assessment of cardiac function across individuals of different sizes.

3. Importance of Cardiac Index Calculation

Details: Cardiac Index is crucial for assessing cardiac function in clinical settings, particularly in critical care, cardiology, and during surgical procedures. It helps in diagnosing and managing various cardiac conditions, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring patient response to therapy.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter cardiac output in L/min and body surface area in m². Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal Cardiac Index range?
A: The normal Cardiac Index typically ranges from 2.5 to 4.2 L/min/m² in healthy adults at rest.

Q2: How is Cardiac Output measured?
A: Cardiac Output can be measured using various methods including echocardiography, thermodilution technique, Fick principle, or pulse contour analysis.

Q3: How is Body Surface Area calculated?
A: BSA is commonly calculated using formulas like the Du Bois formula, Mosteller formula, or Haycock formula, based on height and weight measurements.

Q4: Why is Cardiac Index important in critical care?
A: In critical care, Cardiac Index helps assess the adequacy of tissue perfusion, guide fluid management, and evaluate the effectiveness of inotropic or vasoactive medications.

Q5: Can Cardiac Index vary with age?
A: Yes, Cardiac Index values can vary with age, with generally higher values in children and decreasing slightly with advanced age.