Area calculation of X/Y loops is commonly required for a variety of physiological investigations. Significant among these is the pressure/volume relationship manifest in hemodynamic and pulmonary measurements. In these cases, the area of the pressure/volume loop increases in proportion to the power exerted or work performed.

For quick determination of work performed, the loop display offers an immediate visual advantage over the conventional time domain presentation of the pressure and volume data. One can more easily see if the work performed has increased or decreased by simply visually inspecting the loop size.