What is 'perfusion pressure'?

Perfusion pressure is defined as the pressure gradient that drives blood flow through a vessel. This pressure is essential for ensuring that oxygen and nutrients are delivered to tissues throughout the body. The concept of perfusion pressure takes into account the difference between the arterial pressure entering an organ or tissue and the venous pressure exiting it.

Effective perfusion is crucial for organ function and survival, as it impacts the ability of tissues to receive adequate blood supply. In situations where perfusion pressure decreases, such as in shock or severe illness, tissues may experience hypoxia or inadequate nutrient delivery, leading to cellular damage and organ dysfunction.

Understanding perfusion pressure is vital for evaluating vascular health and guiding treatment decisions in various medical scenarios, such as the management of patients with cardiovascular conditions.