Venous pressure

Venous pressure is the average blood pressure within the venous compartment. The term "venous pressure" is often used to specifically refer to the intravenous pressure. In the systemic circulation, the venous pressure is often measured at the antecubital fossa, usually at the median cubital vein.

Physiology

Venous pressure is a term that represents the average blood pressure within the venous system. It should be noted that the venous pressure is usually much lower than the arterial pressure. This is due to the fact that veins are more compliant (i.e., expandable) than arteries. This means that the pressure in the veins is not as high as in the arteries.

Measurement

Venous pressure can be measured either directly or indirectly. Direct measurement involves inserting a needle into a vein and connecting it to a transducer. Indirect measurement involves using a device that measures the pressure externally, such as a sphygmomanometer.

Clinical significance

Abnormal venous pressure can be a sign of various medical conditions. For example, a high venous pressure can be a sign of congestive heart failure, while a low venous pressure can be a sign of hypovolemia.

See also

• Blood pressure
• Central venous pressure
• Hypovolemia
• Congestive heart failure