Heart Anatomy Flashcards

Heart Anatomy and Function

• The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle, playing a crucial role in blood flow regulation.
• The heart is classified as a muscle, specifically a type of involuntary muscle responsible for pumping blood.
• Veins are blood vessels that transport blood back to the heart, ensuring continuous circulation.
• The size of the heart is comparable to a fist, indicating its relatively small size in humans.
• Valves in the heart regulate blood flow, preventing backflow and ensuring proper circulation between chambers.
• One of the heart's primary functions is to pump blood to the lungs for oxygenation, highlighting its role in the respiratory cycle.
• The myocardium is the thick, muscular wall of the heart that contracts to pump blood effectively.
• The atrium refers to the upper chambers of the heart, comprising both the left and right atria.
• Blood from the right side of the heart is directed to the lungs for oxygenation, part of the pulmonary circulation process.
• The endocardium is the innermost lining of the heart, providing a smooth surface for blood flow.

Cardiovascular Terms

• Dioxide refers to carbon dioxide, a waste gas produced by the body that must be expelled during respiration.
• Arm pain may radiate during a heart attack, serving as a key warning sign for individuals.
• Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to various body parts.
• The aortic valve controls blood flow between the left ventricle and the aorta, the largest artery in the body.
• The semilunar valve is situated between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery, facilitating blood flow to the lungs.
• The heart's function includes pumping blood to each body tissue, nourishing organs and supporting metabolic processes.
• Ventricle refers to the lower chambers of the heart, which are essential for pumping blood out to the lungs and the rest of the body.
• The pericardium is the protective, fiber-like bag surrounding the heart, maintaining its position and providing cushioning.
• The septum is a wall that divides the heart cavity down the middle, separating the left and right sides to ensure efficient blood circulation.
• Pulmonary arteries and veins are specifically responsible for connecting the heart and lungs, integral to gas exchange.
• Blood is essential for nourishing tissues across the body and is continuously circulated by the heart’s pumping action.
• The aorta is the major trunk artery that receives oxygenated blood from the left ventricle, distributing it throughout the body.