Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology - Cardiovascular System

This set of flashcards focuses on key terms and definitions related to the cardiovascular system, particularly the anatomy and physiology of the heart.

Cardiovascular System

The system comprising the heart and blood vessels that circulates blood throughout the body.

Heart Rate

The number of times the heart beats per minute, approximately 100,000 times a day.

Pulmonary Circuit

The part of the cardiovascular system that carries deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation.

Systemic Circuit

The part of the cardiovascular system that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Deoxygenated Blood

Blood that is oxygen-poor and delivered to the lungs for oxygenation.

Oxygenated Blood

Blood that is rich in oxygen, delivered from the lungs to the body's tissues.

Heart Valves

Structures that open and close to ensure one-way blood flow through the heart.

Tricuspid Valve

The right atrioventricular valve located between the right atrium and right ventricle.

Mitral Valve

Also known as the bicuspid valve, it is the atrioventricular valve between the left atrium and left ventricle.

Aortic Valve

The valve that prevents backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle.

Coronary Circulation

The circulation of blood to and from the tissues of the heart.

Atria

The two upper chambers of the heart that receive blood from veins.

Ventricles

The two lower chambers of the heart that pump blood out of the heart.

Pericardium

The fibrous sac surrounding the heart, providing protection and support.

Cardiac Muscle Cells

Specialized muscle cells that make up the heart and contain intercalated discs.

Intercalated Discs

Connections between cardiac muscle cells that facilitate synchronized contraction.

Septum

The dividing wall or membrane between the right and left sides of the heart.

Coronary Arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.

Aortic Sinuses

Dilation at the base of the aorta that serves as the origin for coronary arteries.

Valvular Heart Disease

A condition resulting from the deterioration of heart valve function.

Regurgitation

Backflow of blood due to improper closure of a heart valve.