Mathematical analysis of the pressure-volume curve of the left ventricle

Abstract

Objective: To present a practical approach to cardiac performance factors based upon physical and mathe-matical foundations that lie under the left ventricularpressure volume loop. Methods: Theoretical analysis of the left ventricular pressure volume loop. Conclusions: The process of reanimation in the critically-ül population depends on indirect measurements of left ventricular performance factors, often derived from invasive maneuvers. Theoretical limitations frompulmonary artery catheter-derived calculations become ob-vious, and warrant the development ofnew methods that allow displaying left ventricularpressure-volume loop at the bedside.