Human Anatomy - Heart

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and definitions related to the cardiovascular system and heart anatomy based on the lecture notes.

Atria

The upper chambers of the heart that receive blood; they have thinner walls than ventricles.

Ventricles

The lower chambers of the heart that pump blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.

Pulmonary Circuit

The pathway of blood from the heart to the lungs and back, for oxygenation.

Systemic Circuit

The pathway of blood from the heart to the body tissues and back, distributing oxygen.

SA Node

The natural pacemaker of the heart, located in the right atrium, responsible for initiating the heartbeat.

AV Node

A secondary pacemaker located in the right atrium that regulates the electrical impulse between the atria and ventricles.

Myocardium

The muscular middle layer of the heart wall that is responsible for contraction.

Endocardium

The inner lining of the heart chambers and valves.

Epicardium

The outer layer of the heart, also known as the visceral pericardium.

Atrioventricular Valves

Valves located between the atria and ventricles, including the tricuspid and bicuspid (mitral) valves.

Semilunar Valves

Valves located between the ventricles and the major arteries; include the aortic and pulmonary semilunar valves.

Chordae Tendineae

Tendons connecting the papillary muscles to the atrioventricular valves, preventing backflow of blood.

Cardiac Cycle

The sequence of events in one heartbeat, consisting of contraction (systole) and relaxation (diastole) phases.

Intrinsic Conduction System

The specialized electrical system that regulates the heart's rhythm and contraction.

Myocardial Infarction

Commonly known as a heart attack, it occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked.

Cardiac Arrest

A sudden stop in effective blood circulation due to the failure of the heart to contract effectively.

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

A test that records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time.