What is the normal pressure for the left atrium?

The normal pressure for the left atrium usually ranges around 8 to 12 mmHg, with 10 mmHg being a commonly accepted value for general discussions in cardiac physiology. This pressure reflects the hemodynamic status of the left atrium as it receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary veins before it is pumped into the left ventricle.

An essential aspect of understanding left atrial pressure involves its role during the cardiac cycle. The left atrium functions under relatively low pressure compared to the left ventricle and the systemic circulation, which facilitates efficient filling from the pulmonary circulation. It is also an important parameter when considering conditions like left atrial enlargement or heart failure, where the pressures may deviate from normal.

The other values provided are higher than the accepted normal range for left atrial pressure, which would indicate pathophysiological conditions if measured in a healthy individual. Recognizing the normal left atrial pressure is crucial for cardiac assessments and diagnostic imaging in echocardiography.