What percentage of total blood volume can the peripheral venous system hold?

The peripheral venous system is designed to function as a reservoir for blood, helping to regulate overall blood volume and pressure within the circulatory system. It is estimated that the peripheral veins can accommodate about 60% of total blood volume. This significant capacity plays a crucial role in maintaining hemodynamic stability, especially during times of physiological stress such as changes in posture, exercise, or when blood volume is challenged by bleeding or fluid shifts.

The venous system, due to its compliance, allows it to hold a larger volume of blood compared to the arterial system. This ability to store blood aids in adjusting cardiac output and can help in compensating for sudden changes in body position or blood volume. These characteristics highlight the importance of the venous system in overall cardiovascular health and function.