Valves of the heart

What is the primary function of heart valves?

To ensure blood flows in one direction.

What are heart valves composed of?

Connective tissue and endocardium.

What are the two categories of heart valves?

Atrioventricular and Semilunar valves.

What is the function of atrioventricular valves?

Located between the atria and corresponding ventricle, they close during ventricular contraction.

What are the two types of atrioventricular valves?

Tricuspid valve and Mitral (bicuspid) valve.

Where is the tricuspid valve located?

Between the right atrium (RA) and right ventricle (RV).

How many cusps does the tricuspid valve have?

Three cusps: anterior, septal, and posterior.

What structure anchors the cusps of the tricuspid valve?

A fibrous ring surrounds the orifice.

How many cusps does the mitral (bicuspid) valve have?

Two cusps.

What supports the mitral valve?

Attachment of fibrous cords (chordae tendineae) to the free edges of the valve cusps.

What is the role of papillary muscles during ventricular systole?

They contract to prevent prolapse of the valve leaflets into the atria.

How many papillary muscles are there in total?

Five papillary muscles.

Where are the semilunar valves located?

Between the ventricles and the outflow vessels.

What happens to the semilunar valves during diastole?

They close at the beginning of ventricular relaxation, producing the second heart sound.

What is the location and function of the pulmonary valve?

Between the RV and pulmonary trunk, it regulates blood flow from the heart to the lungs.

How many cusps does the pulmonary valve have?

Three cusps: left, right, and anterior.

What is the aortic valve's role?

Located between the left ventricle and the ascending aorta, it regulates blood flow leaving the heart.

What are the two key features of each valve leaflet in the semilunar valves?

They are attached to the walls of the outflow vessel and have a thickened free superior edge.

What happens during the beginning of ventricular diastole in relation to the semilunar valves?

Blood flows back towards the heart, filling the sinuses and pushing the valve cusps together to close the valve.