Beck's triad (cardiology): Difference between revisions
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==Physiology== |
==Physiology== |
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The fall in [[arterial blood pressure]] results from pericardial fluid accumulation |
The fall in [[arterial blood pressure]] results from pericardial fluid accumulation increasing pressure on the outside of the heart that limits the maximum size the ventricles can stretch to. This limits diastolic expansion (filling) which results in a lower EDV (End Diastolic Volume) which reduces [[stroke volume]], a major determinant of [[Systole (medicine)|systolic]] blood pressure. |
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The rising [[central venous pressure]] is evidenced by [[jugular venous distension|distended jugular veins]] while in a non-[[supine position]]. It is caused by reduced [[diastole|diastolic]] filling of the [[right ventricle]], due to pressure from the adjacent expanding [[pericardial sac]]. This results in a backup of fluid into the veins draining into the heart, most notably, the [[jugular vein]]s. In severe [[hypovolemia]], the neck veins may not be distended. |
The rising [[central venous pressure]] is evidenced by [[jugular venous distension|distended jugular veins]] while in a non-[[supine position]]. It is caused by reduced [[diastole|diastolic]] filling of the [[right ventricle]], due to pressure from the adjacent expanding [[pericardial sac]]. This results in a backup of fluid into the veins draining into the heart, most notably, the [[jugular vein]]s. In severe [[hypovolemia]], the neck veins may not be distended. |
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Revision as of 20:21, 21 October 2014
Beck's triad is a collection of three medical signs associated with acute cardiac tamponade, an emergency condition wherein fluid accumulates around the heart and impairs its ability to pump blood. The signs are low arterial blood pressure, distended neck veins, and distant, muffled heart sounds.[1]
Narrowed pulse pressure might also be observed. The concept was developed by Claude Beck, a resident and later Professor of Cardiovascular Surgery at Case Western Reserve University.[2]
Physiology
The fall in arterial blood pressure results from pericardial fluid accumulation increasing pressure on the outside of the heart that limits the maximum size the ventricles can stretch to. This limits diastolic expansion (filling) which results in a lower EDV (End Diastolic Volume) which reduces stroke volume, a major determinant of systolic blood pressure.
The rising central venous pressure is evidenced by distended jugular veins while in a non-supine position. It is caused by reduced diastolic filling of the right ventricle, due to pressure from the adjacent expanding pericardial sac. This results in a backup of fluid into the veins draining into the heart, most notably, the jugular veins. In severe hypovolemia, the neck veins may not be distended.
The suppressed heart sounds occur due to the muffling effects of the fluid surrounding the heart.
Clinical use
Although the full triad is present only in a minority of cases of acute cardiac tamponade,[1] presence of the triad is considered pathognomonic for the condition.[3]
References
- ^ a b Sternbach G (1988). "Claude Beck: cardiac compression triads". J Emerg Med. 6 (5): 417–9. doi:10.1016/0736-4679(88)90017-0. PMID 3066820.
- ^ Case faculty Claude Beck - http://www.hrsonline.org/News/ep-history/notable-figures/claudebeck.cfm
- ^ Demetriades D (1986). "Cardiac wounds. Experience with 70 patients". Ann. Surg. 203 (3): 315–7. doi:10.1097/00000658-198603000-00018. PMC 1251098. PMID 3954485.
External links
Template:Eponymous medical signs for circulatory and respiratory systems
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