Coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) is calculated by which formula?

Coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) is a critical measurement that reflects the pressure gradient driving blood flow to the heart muscle. It is primarily determined by the difference between diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and the filling pressure of the heart, which can be represented by pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) in this context.

The formula for calculating coronary perfusion pressure is the diastolic blood pressure minus the pulmonary artery wedge pressure. This relationship highlights that as DBP increases, the CPP increases, enhancing blood flow to the myocardium. Conversely, if PAWP is higher, it reduces the CPP, indicating potential issues in perfusion to the heart muscle. Understanding this calculation is vital for critical care paramedics as it provides insight into the hemodynamic status of a patient, particularly in cardiac emergencies.