The Windkessel function of the aorta refers to:

• A The ability of the aortic valve to prevent regurgitation during diastole
• B Baroreceptor-mediated reflex control of peripheral resistance
• C Elastic recoil of the aortic wall during diastole to maintain continuous forward flow and diastolic blood pressure ✓
• D The pressure difference between systole and diastole (pulse pressure)

Explanation

The Windkessel function describes the elastic aorta's role as a pressure reservoir. During systole, LV ejection distends the aorta (storing potential energy in its walls). During diastole, when the aortic valve is closed, the elastic recoil of the aortic wall compresses stored blood, maintaining continuous forward flow in peripheral arteries and sustaining diastolic blood pressure. This dampens pulsatile pressure and ensures continuous tissue perfusion during the diastolic interval. Loss of aortic elasticity (arteriosclerosis) increases pulse pressure and reduces Windkessel efficiency.

Reference: Guyton & Hall, Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th ed.

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