Mean arterial pressure (MAP)
* MAP = DP + 1/3(SP – DP) or
* MAP = DP + 1/3(PP)
Where DP is the diastolic blood pressure, SP is the systolic blood pressure, and PP is the pulse pressure.
To perfuse vital organs requires the maintenance of a minimum MAP of 60 mmHg. If MAP drops below this point for an extended period, end-organ manifestations such as ischemia and infarction can occur. If the MAP drops significantly, blood will not be able to perfuse cerebral tissues, there will be a loss of consciousness, and neuronal death will quickly ensue.
Satyendra Dhar MD,
