Abnormal aortic physiology Aortic stiffness 2017-04-18T13:16:10Z Increased aortic stiffness The elastic properties of the aorta allow the aorta to store half of the cardiac ejected blood volume per beat, whereby aortic recoil during diastole pushes the remaining stored volume forward into the peripheral circulation, a phenomenon known as the Windkessel function. Aortic stiffness occurs as the elastic fibers within the arterial wall become disrupted due to mechanical stress (with age or due to other factors). Aortic stiffness refers to a reduction in the elasticity of the aorta, which is associated with an elevated pulse pressure, increased wave reflection, and often hypertension.