Cardiac Index Formula:
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The Cardiac Index Calculator using VTI (Velocity Time Integral) estimates cardiac output by measuring blood flow through the heart. It provides a non-invasive assessment of heart function using echocardiographic parameters.
The calculator uses the cardiac output formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation calculates the volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute by combining cross-sectional area, flow velocity, and heart rate.
Details: Accurate cardiac output measurement is crucial for assessing heart function, diagnosing cardiac conditions, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and guiding clinical management of cardiovascular diseases.
Tips: Enter the diameter of the outflow tract in cm, VTI measurement in cm, and heart rate in beats per minute. All values must be valid positive numbers for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is VTI in echocardiography?
A: VTI (Velocity Time Integral) is the integral of the velocity curve over time, representing the distance blood travels with each heartbeat.
Q2: What are normal cardiac output values?
A: Normal cardiac output ranges from 4-8 L/min for adults at rest, though values vary based on body size, age, and physical condition.
Q3: Where is the diameter measurement taken?
A: The diameter is typically measured at the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) during echocardiography.
Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation method?
A: Accuracy depends on precise measurement of diameter and VTI. It may be less accurate in patients with irregular heart rhythms or complex cardiac anatomy.
Q5: How does this relate to cardiac index?
A: Cardiac index is cardiac output normalized to body surface area (CI = CO/BSA), providing a more personalized assessment of cardiac function.