What is the function of the Eustachian valve in the inferior venacava?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the specific function of the Eustachian valve located in the inferior vena cava and presents several options related to its role in the circulatory system. To answer this, we need to provide information regarding the Eustachian valve and its primary function.
Answer
It directs blood towards the foramen ovale during fetal development.
The Eustachian valve directs oxygen-rich blood from the inferior vena cava towards the foramen ovale and away from the tricuspid valve during fetal development. It does not function as a true valve in preventing blood reflux in adults.
Answer for screen readers
The Eustachian valve directs oxygen-rich blood from the inferior vena cava towards the foramen ovale and away from the tricuspid valve during fetal development. It does not function as a true valve in preventing blood reflux in adults.
More Information
The Eustachian valve is an embryonic remnant and typically becomes inconspicuous after birth, serving little to no functional role in adulthood unless there are certain anatomical variations.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse its purpose with that of functioning valves like the mitral or tricuspid valves, which regulate direction of blood flow.
Sources
- Valve of inferior vena cava - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Eustachian valve | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org - radiopaedia.org
- Unusual eustachian valve function - PubMed - pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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