Cardiology Overview

Study Notes

Heart Function

The heart is the body's main pump.
It pumps oxygen-rich blood to organs and tissues.
It also returns oxygen-poor blood to the lungs.

Location and Size

The heart is about the size of a fist.
It is located in the thoracic cavity in the mediastinum, the space between the lungs and beneath the sternum.
Two-thirds of the heart extends to the left of the body's midline.
The broadest part of the heart, called the base, is at the upper right.
The pointed end, called the apex, is at the lower left.

Cardiology

Cardiology is the study of the heart and the treatment of related disorders.

Heart Structures

The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart.
The heart wall has three layers:
- Endocardium: Lines the heart chambers, covering the valves and continuing into the vessels.
- Myocardium: The thickest layer, responsible for the heart's work.
- Epicardium: Covers the heart's surface.
The heart has four chambers:
- Atria: Two upper chambers (Left and Right).
- Ventricles: Two lower chambers (Left and Right).
The heart is connected to several large vessels that transport blood to and from the heart. These are called the Great Vessels:
- Superior and Inferior Vena Cava
- Pulmonary Artery (right and left)
- Four Pulmonary Veins (two for each lung)
- Aorta (largest artery in the body)
The heart has two septa:
- Interatrial Septum: Separates the right and left atria.
- Interventricular Septum: Separates the right and left ventricles.
The heart also has four valves that ensure blood moves in a forward direction.

Atrioventricular Valves

Right AV Valve (Tricuspid Valve): Prevents backflow from the right ventricle to the right atrium.
Left AV Valve (Bicuspid or Mitral Valve): Prevents backflow from the left ventricle to the left atrium.

Semilunar Valves

Pulmonary Valve: Prevents backflow from the pulmonary artery to the right ventricle.
Aortic Valve: Prevents backflow from the aorta to the left ventricle.

Heart Sounds

When the heart valves close, they produce vibrations that can be heard with a stethoscope.

Valvular Disease

Valvular Insufficiency: Occurs when a valve fails to prevent backflow of blood.
Valvular Stenosis: Occurs when a valve becomes narrowed, often due to scar tissue.
Heart Murmur: A sound caused by turbulence from backflow of blood or the force of blood moving through a narrowed valve.

Description

This quiz explores key concepts about heart function, structure, and location. Learn about the heart's role in the circulatory system, its anatomy, and the field of cardiology. Perfect for those studying human biology or cardiology.