Bainbridge Reflex

Other known aliases – Atrial Reflex

Definition – Compensatory increase in heart rate caused by a rise in right atrial pressure.  Opposite of carotid baroreceptors.

Clinical Significance – Respiratory sinus arrythmia.  Inspiration causes increased venous return.

History – Described by Francis Arthur Bainbridge in 1915

References

1. Hakumäki MO. Seventy years of the Bainbridge reflex. Acta physiologica Scandinavica. 1987;130(2):177-85. [pubmed]
2. Firkin BG and Whitwirth JA.  Dictionary of Medical Eponyms. 2nd ed.  New York, NY; Parthenon Publishing Group. 1996.
3. http://www.healio.com/cardiology/learn-the-heart/cardiology-review/topic-reviews/bainbridge-reflex