The study guide that helps you to truly understand rather than merely memorize the essential principles of cardiovascular medicine The goal of this unique review is to give you a working understanding of the key concepts of cardiovascular physiology. Concise but thorough, Cardiovascular Physiology focuses on the facts you need to get a solid big picture overview of how the cardiovascular system operates under normal and abnormal situations. There is no faster or more effective way to learn how the key principles of cardiovascular function apply to common physiological and pathological challenges than this engagingly-written guide. Features: Clarifies the details of physiologic mechanisms and their role in pathologic states Links cardiovascular physiology to diagnosis and treatmentSummarizes key concepts at the end of each chapterHighlights must-know information with chapter objectivesProvides the perfect quick review for the USMLE Step 1Reinforces learning with study questions at the end of each chapterKeeps you up to date on the latest research and developments in this ever-changing field The content you need to gain a thorough understanding of this essential subject: Overview of the Cardiovascular System, Characteristics of Cardiac Muscle Cells, The Heart Pump, Measurement of Cardiac Function, Cardiac Abnormalities, The Peripheral Vascular System, Vascular Control, Central Venous Pressure: An Indicator of Circulatory Hemodynamics, Regulation of Arterial Pressure, Cardiovascular Response to Physiological Stresses, Cardiovascular Function in Pathological Situations.