Cardiology

Cardiac Index

3 inputsCardiology

Cardiac output indexed to body surface area.

Calculate

Cardiac Index calculator

Result

2.75L/min/m²

Normal (2.2–4.0)

CI < 2.2: cardiogenic shock threshold (with PCWP > 15 mmHg). BSA calculated by Mosteller formula.

How to use it

1
Obtain cardiac output. Via thermodilution (PA catheter), Fick method, transthoracic echo (VTI × LVOT), or non-invasive CO monitoring.
2
Calculate BSA. Mosteller: √(height[cm] × weight[kg] / 3600).
3
Interpret CI. CI < 2.2 L/min/m² = cardiogenic shock territory. CI > 4.0 with low SVR suggests distributive physiology.

When to use it

Cardiogenic shock identification: CI < 2.2 with PCWP > 18 mmHg = cold and wet (Forrester IV, Stevenson profile C). Guides inotrope/IABP/ECMO decisions.
Differentiating shock types: Low CO/CI + high SVR = cardiogenic/obstructive. High CO/CI + low SVR = distributive (sepsis, anaphylaxis).
Post-cardiac surgery monitoring: Routine CI monitoring in cardiac ICU. Target CI > 2.2 post-op.

A reference for clinicians and students, not medical advice. A score supports a decision; it does not make one. Check every result against the patient in front of you and your local protocol.

At a glance

Specialty: Cardiology
Inputs: 3
Type: Formula

Cardiac Index calculator

Result

How to use it

When to use it

At a glance

The same calculators, next to your cards.