Cardiac Anatomy and Physiology

Cardiac Anatomy and StructurePage 1

The heart is an automatic contractile muscle serving as the engine of arterial circulation. Its wall comprises the endocardium, the thick myocardium (thicker in the left ventricle), and the epicardium. A fibrous skeleton provides structural support and ensures electrical isolation between atria and ventricles.

Configuration and MorphologyPage 1

The heart is pyramid-shaped and weighs approximately 250g. Externally, it features deep grooves (auriculoventricular and interventricular) that house major coronary vessels. Internally, the heart is divided into right and left halves, each containing an atrium and a ventricle, separated by septa.

Valvular Systems and Internal StructurePage 1

The heart utilizes four valves: the atrioventricular valves (tricuspid on the right, mitral on the left) which involve complex cordage and papillary muscles, and the arterial valves (aortic and pulmonary) which lack cordage and prevent backflow.

Conduction and VascularizationPage 1

Cardiac contraction is initiated and coordinated by the cardionecting system, including the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, and Purkinje fibers. Vascularization is supplied by the left and right coronary arteries arising from the aorta, with venous drainage primarily through the coronary sinus.

Thoracic Vasculature and Glandular AnatomyPage 1

The study also includes the structure of the thoracic aorta and its major branches, the superior vena cava system, and the azygos vein as a critical venous anastomosis. A brief overview of mammary gland structure, consisting of secretory lobules and galactophore ducts, is also provided.