Myokardbedarf

Myokardbedarf refers to the oxygen demand of the heart muscle, the myocardium. This demand is influenced by several factors, including heart rate, contractility, and wall tension. During physical activity or stress, the heart rate increases, leading to a higher demand for oxygen. Similarly, increased contractility, which is the force with which the heart muscle contracts, also raises myocardial oxygen consumption. Wall tension, determined by factors like blood pressure and ventricular size, also contributes to the heart's energy needs.

The heart muscle has a high metabolic rate and relies almost exclusively on aerobic metabolism, meaning it requires a continuous supply of oxygen. This oxygen is delivered by the coronary arteries. If the myocardial oxygen demand exceeds the supply, a condition known as myocardial ischemia can occur. This imbalance is often seen in conditions like coronary artery disease, where narrowed arteries restrict blood flow. Symptoms of myocardial ischemia can include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or fatigue. Understanding myocardial oxygen demand is crucial in diagnosing and managing various cardiovascular diseases.