Pathophysiology of Heart Failure

Question 1

What are the three types of heart failure?

Answer 1

1. Systolic heart failure
2. Diastolic heart failure
3. High output heart failure

Question 2

How is it possible to have a normal SV in mild systolic dysfunction?

Answer 2

Initially there is a decreased SV due to systolic dysfunction, this results in an increased volume of blood left behind following normal systole = increased filling volumes. Increased filling volumes can in turn return SV to normal.

Question 3

What is the maintenance of SV dependent on in systolic heart failure?

Answer 3

The maintenance of SV is dependent on the severity of systolic dysfunction.

Question 4

How is systolic dysfunction identified?

Answer 4

Systolic dysfunction is identified by a decreased ejection fraction.

Question 5

What is the end result of a high filling volume?

Answer 5

High filling volume = high filling pressure

- Lose negative pressure gradient and have to rely on atrial contraction to get blood from the atrium to the ventricle.

Question 6

Which heart sound is associated with increased filling pressures?

Answer 6

S3

associated with increased turbulence due to increased pressures