skip to main content

Frank-Starling response to passive leg raise — FRCA Primary MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardPhysiologyFrank-Starling response to passive leg raiseFRCA Primary

Immediately after induction, a hypotensive patient has a high stroke-volume variation and arterial pressure rises with passive leg raising. What mechanism best explains the response?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Increased preload increases stroke volume through Frank-Starling physiology

The best answer is “Increased preload increases stroke volume through Frank-Starling physiology”. Passive leg raising transiently increases venous return. A rise in arterial pressure indicates preload responsiveness: the ventricle is operating on the ascending portion of the Frank-Starling curve, so increased preload increases stroke volume. The other proposed haemodynamic changes do not explain the response.

Reference: RCoA, FRCA Primary MCQ examination: https://rcoa.ac.uk/examinations/primary-frca-examination/frca-primary-mcq-examination