pulssikierto
Pulssikierto, also known as pulsatile flow, refers to the rhythmic expansion and contraction of blood vessels in response to the heartbeat. This phenomenon is primarily observed in the arteries, where the pulsatile nature of blood flow is most pronounced. The pulsatile flow is a result of the heart's rhythmic contractions, known as systole, and the subsequent relaxation, known as diastole. During systole, the heart contracts and pumps blood into the arteries, causing a temporary increase in pressure and volume. This increase in pressure leads to the expansion of the arterial walls, which then recoil during diastole as the heart relaxes and blood flows back into the heart. The pulsatile nature of blood flow is crucial for maintaining adequate blood pressure and ensuring the efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues. However, excessive pulsatility can lead to conditions such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Monitoring pulsatile flow is essential in clinical settings to assess cardiovascular health and diagnose conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.