What is the anatomical location and orientation of the heart?
Understand the Problem
The question pertains to the anatomical location and orientation of the heart, discussing its size, shape, position within the thorax, and relation to surrounding structures.
Answer
Located in mediastinum, base towards right shoulder, apex towards left hip.
The heart is located in the mediastinum, oriented obliquely from the second to fifth intercostal space, with its base towards the right shoulder and apex pointing towards the left hip.
Answer for screen readers
The heart is located in the mediastinum, oriented obliquely from the second to fifth intercostal space, with its base towards the right shoulder and apex pointing towards the left hip.
More Information
The heart's orientation allows efficient blood circulation, with the apex positioned optimally for contraction.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the heart's positioning with its functional parts. The base and apex refer to anatomical orientation, not necessarily function.
Sources
- The Heart - Anatomy and Physiology II - Lumen Learning - courses.lumenlearning.com
- Heart: Anatomy & Function - Cleveland Clinic - my.clevelandclinic.org
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