The dicrotic notch on the aortic pressure curve is due to
A)a disturbance set up by the aortic valve closing
B)a disturbance set up when the AV valves close
C)elastic recoil of the aorta during ventricular diastole
D)turbulent flow through a stenotic valve
E)atherosclerosis in the aorta

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The dicrotic notch on the aortic pressure curve is caused by the disturbance created by the closure of the aortic valve. During ventricular systole, the aortic valve opens to allow blood to flow into the aorta. When the ventricle relaxes during diastole, the aortic valve closes causing a brief disruption in the smooth flow of blood and creating the dicrotic notch.

The Dicrotic Notch on the Aortic Pressure Curve Is Due