Stroke Volume Calculator

Calculate stroke volume based on cardiac output and heart rate. Stroke volume is the amount of blood pumped by the heart with each beat.

Enter cardiac output in liters per minute (L/min)
Enter heart rate in beats per minute (bpm)

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter cardiac output in liters per minute (L/min)
  2. Enter heart rate in beats per minute (bpm)
  3. Review your inputs for accuracy
  4. Click Calculate to see your stroke volume in milliliters (mL)

Formula Used

Stroke Volume (mL) = (Cardiac Output × 1000) / Heart Rate

Where:

  • Stroke Volume = Amount of blood pumped by the heart with each beat
  • Cardiac Output = Volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute
  • Heart Rate = Number of heart beats per minute
  • 1000 = Conversion factor from liters to milliliters

Example Calculation

Real-World Scenario:

A cardiologist wants to determine a patient's stroke volume during a cardiac examination. The patient's cardiac output is measured at 5.0 L/min with a heart rate of 70 bpm.

Given:

  • Cardiac Output = 5.0 L/min
  • Heart Rate = 70 bpm

Calculation:

Stroke Volume = (5.0 L/min × 1000 mL/L) / 70 bpm = 5000 mL/min / 70 bpm = 71.4 mL/beat

Result: The patient's stroke volume is 71.4 mL, which falls within the normal range of 60-100 mL for an adult.

Why This Calculation Matters

Practical Applications

  • Assessing cardiac function in patients with heart disease
  • Evaluating effectiveness of cardiac medications
  • Monitoring patients during critical care situations
  • Diagnosing heart valve problems

Key Benefits

  • Helps identify cardiac abnormalities
  • Guides treatment decisions for heart conditions
  • Provides insight into heart efficiency
  • Assists in monitoring cardiovascular health

Common Mistakes & Tips

Ensure cardiac output is entered in liters per minute (L/min), not milliliters per minute. The calculator automatically converts to milliliters for the stroke volume calculation. Common errors include entering cardiac output in milliliters or using incorrect heart rate units.

Normal stroke volume ranges vary by body size, age, and physical condition. What's normal for a small adult may be different for a large adult or athlete. Consider these factors when interpreting results rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

For an average-sized adult at rest, normal stroke volume is typically between 60-100 mL. This can vary based on body size, age, and physical condition. Athletes often have higher stroke volumes, while individuals with certain heart conditions may have lower values.

Stroke volume is typically measured using imaging techniques like echocardiography or cardiac MRI. It can also be calculated using thermodilution or Fick methods during cardiac catheterization. In clinical settings, it's often calculated from cardiac output and heart rate measurements.

Stroke volume is influenced by preload (ventricular filling), afterload (resistance to ejection), and myocardial contractility. Other factors include heart size, valve function, blood volume, nervous system regulation, and certain medications. Exercise, body position, and disease states can also affect stroke volume.

References & Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator provides an estimate of stroke volume based on the inputs provided. It is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns.

References

Accuracy Notice

This calculator provides an estimate based on standard formulas. Individual stroke volume can vary based on numerous physiological factors and measurement techniques. The calculation assumes steady-state conditions and does not account for all possible variables affecting cardiac function.

About the Author

Kumaravel Madhavan

Web developer and data researcher creating accurate, easy-to-use calculators across health, finance, education, and construction and more. Works with subject-matter experts to ensure formulas meet trusted standards like WHO, NIH, and ISO.

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