Hemodynamics Flashcards
Reference
Right Atrial Tracing
What do the a and v waves represent?
The a wave represents the pressure rise within the right atrium due to atrial contraction and follows the P wave (on ECG) by about 80 mSec.
The v wave represents passive venous filling of the atrium (atrial diastole). It occurs at the same time as ventricular systole, when the tricuspid valve is closed.
Right Atrial Tracing
What do the x and y descents represent?
The x descent represents the pressure decay following the a wave and reflects both atrial relaxation and the sudden downward motion of the AV junction that occurs due to ventricular systole.
The y descent is due to pressure decay from rapid emptying of the right atrium when the tricuspid valve opens. Atrial contraction follows triggering the subsequent a wave.
