ejection click, a sharp, clicking sound arising from near the heart. It may be caused by sudden swelling of a pulmonary artery, abrupt dilation of the aorta, or forceful opening of the aortic cusps. Ejection clicks are often heard during examination of individuals with septal defects or patent ductus arteriosus. Although they are associated with high pulmonary resistance and hypertension, they are common and of no clinical significance in pregnant women and in many other healthy people. Compare systolic click. See also ejection sound.
