CV Synoptic Revision Flashcards
What are the components of the vascular system, and what is their function?
The vascular system consists of arteries, arterioles, capillaries, veins, and venules.
Its primary function is to transport oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to tissues while removing waste products
What are the characteristics of arteries?
Arteries are thick-walled, muscular vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart under high pressure. They constrict to create resistance.
What role do arterioles play in blood pressure regulation?
Arterioles are smaller branches of arteries that regulate blood pressure and blood flow through vasoconstriction and vasodilation.
How do capillaries facilitate exchange in the body?
Capillaries have thin walls that allow the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between blood and tissues.
What are the effects of hypertension on the arteries?
Hypertension causes endothelial damage, increasing atherosclerosis risk, thickens arterial walls reducing elasticity, and increases cardiac workload leading to heart failure.
What is QRISK3?
QRISK3 is a tool that estimates a 10-year cardiovascular risk
What are the first-line and add-on pharmacological interventions for hypertension?
ACE inhibitors (Ramipril) or Calcium Channel Blockers (Amlodipine). Add-on: Thiazide diuretics (Indapamide, Chlorthalidone)
What medications are used for lipid-lowering therapy in cardiovascular disease?
Statins, such as Atorvastatin (20-40 mg), are used to lower LDL cholesterol.
What lifestyle modifications are recommended for cardiovascular disease prevention?
Dietary changes (reducing salt, saturated fats, and processed foods), regular physical activity, alcohol moderation, and stress management.
What are the key monitoring requirements for cardiovascular disease management?
Blood pressure (every 4 weeks initially, then every 3-6 months), lipid profile (at 3 months, then annually), renal function before and periodically after ACE inhibitors, liver function before and 3 months after statin initiation.
How do ACE inhibitors work?
They contain a carboxyl group that inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme, preventing angiotensin II formation, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.
What is the process of atherosclerosis leading to angina?
Endothelial injury from smoking, hypertension, and high cholesterol → LDL cholesterol accumulation → macrophage infiltration and plaque formation → potential rupture leading to myocardial infarction.
What are the key pharmacological treatments for stable angina?
Short-acting nitrates (GTN spray) for symptom relief; beta-blockers (Bisoprolol, Metoprolol), calcium channel blockers (Diltiazem, Amlodipine), and aspirin (75 mg daily) for long-term prevention
What are the primary coronary arteries and their supply regions?
LAD (anterior left ventricle, septum)
RCA (right atrium, ventricle, inferior heart)
LCX (lateral left ventricle)
What is dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) post-PCI?
DAPT consists of Aspirin plus Ticagrelor or Clopidogrel to prevent thrombosis post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
What medications are used for secondary prevention post-STEMI?
Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, statins, and aldosterone antagonists (if heart failure is present)
What is the cardiac output (CO) equation?
CO = HR × SV, where HR is heart rate and SV is stroke volume
How does Digoxin work in atrial fibrillation?
It increases vagal tone, slowing conduction at the AV node.
What is the mechanism of action of Furosemide in heart failure?
It inhibits the Na-K-Cl co-transporter in the Loop of Henle, reducing fluid overload.
Why is a 36-hour washout period needed when transitioning from Ramipril to Sacubitril/Valsartan?
This prevents angioedema, as both drugs affect the renin-angiotensin system.
What are the monitoring requirements when using Sacubitril/Valsartan?
Blood pressure (to prevent hypotension), renal function (to avoid hyperkalemia), and BNP levels (to assess heart failure severity).
