Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) Calculator
Calculate mean arterial pressure and pulse pressure from a blood pressure reading.
✓ Formulas cited from the published literature
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About this calculator
Mean arterial pressure is the average pressure in the arteries during one cardiac cycle and is a good indicator of how well blood is perfusing vital organs. A MAP of at least 60–65 mmHg is generally needed to keep the organs supplied, and critical-care targets are often 65 mmHg or higher.
How it works
MAP = (systolic + 2 × diastolic) ÷ 3
Pulse pressure = systolic − diastolic
Diastole lasts about twice as long as systole at normal heart rates, so diastolic pressure is weighted double. The formula is less accurate at very fast heart rates.
How to read your result
| MAP (mmHg) | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| < 60 | Low, risk of organ hypoperfusion |
| 60–69 | Borderline low |
| 70–100 | Normal |
| > 100 | High |
Worked example
A blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg.
| Mean arterial pressure | 93 mmHg Normal (70–100 mmHg) |
| Pulse pressure | 40 mmHg Systolic minus diastolic |
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal MAP?
About 70–100 mmHg. Sustained values above 60 mmHg are usually enough to perfuse the organs.
Why is MAP used in sepsis?
Guidelines target an initial MAP of 65 mmHg in septic shock to maintain organ perfusion.
Is MAP the same as the average of systolic and diastolic?
No. Because diastole lasts longer, MAP is closer to diastolic pressure than a simple average.
Limitations and when not to use
Estimate based on a cuff reading. Invasive arterial monitoring is more accurate in critical care.
Sources and references
- DeMers D, Wachs D. Physiology, Mean Arterial Pressure. StatPearls, 2023.
- Evans L, et al. Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International Guidelines 2021. Crit Care Med 2021;49:e1063–e1143.
Last updated: 2026-10-09