Venous return is a major determinant of cardiac output. Adjustments within the venous system are critical for maintaining venous pressure during loss in circulating volume.

What is the importance of venous return to the pumping ability of the heart?

Venous return is defined as the flow of blood back to the heart. It is therefore important in maintaining normal circulation. The heart is a myogenic pump, meaning it is responsible for its own stimulation to pump blood out to the rest of the body.

What is the meaning of venous return?

Venous return refers to the flow of blood from the periphery back to the right atrium, and except for periods of a few seconds, it is equal to cardiac output.