Heart Anatomy and Physiology

A collection of flashcards focusing on key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and physiology of the heart.

Mediastinum

The space located between the two lungs where the heart is situated.

Pericardium

A tough membrane that covers the heart, separating it from other structures in the mediastinum.

Right Atrium

Chamber of the heart that receives poorly oxygenated blood from the body via the superior and inferior vena cava.

Pulmonary Circulation

The blood circulation pathway in which blood is pumped from the right ventricle to the lungs for oxygenation.

Aorta

The main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the entire body.

Auricles

Pouch-like protrusions found on both atria that can increase their capacity.

Tricuspid Valve

The valve between the right atrium and right ventricle that prevents backflow of blood.

Chordae Tendineae

Tendinous cords that anchor the heart valve leaflets to the papillary muscles.

Left Ventricle

Chamber of the heart that pumps oxygenated blood into the aorta.

Mitral Valve

The valve between the left atrium and left ventricle, also known as the bicuspid valve.

Sinoatrial (SA) Node

The pacemaker of the heart located at the junction of the superior vena cava and right atrium.

Atrioventricular (AV) Node

Nodal tissue that conducts impulses from the atria to the ventricles.

Pulmonary Trunk

The vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.

Systemic Circulation

The pathway of blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body.

Interatrial Septum

The wall that separates the right and left atria.

Intraventricular Septum

The wall that separates the right and left ventricles.

Cardiac Plexus

Network of nerve fibers that supply the heart, containing sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers.

Semilunar Valves

Valves located between the ventricles and the aorta or pulmonary trunk, preventing backflow.

Moderator Band

Muscular bundle in the right ventricle that assists in coordinating contraction.

Pulmonary Veins

Vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium.

Pulmonary Arteries

Vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.