Thermal-dilution cardiac output unit

A thermal-dilution cardiac output unit is a medical device that measures how much blood the heart pumps per minute by using a temperature-based indicator dilution. It works by introducing a cold or temperature-changed solution into the bloodstream and detecting the resulting temperature changes downstream via a specialized catheter with a thermistor, allowing calculation of cardiac output.

Devices in this category are typically used in critical care settings such as intensive care units and operating rooms to monitor hemodynamic status. They are generally classified as active diagnostic devices and require connection to a compatible pulmonary artery catheter system for operation, with measurements derived from the thermal indicator dissipation curve.