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Medical Terminology > Cardiovascular System > Flashcards

Cardiovascular System Flashcards

Covers heart anatomy, blood circulation, common cardiovascular disorders, and diagnostic tests such as EKGs and echocardiograms. (108 cards)

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1
Q

Define:

aorta

A

The largest artery in the body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and distributing oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation.

The surgeon repaired the aorta during the open-heart procedure.

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2
Q

Define:

atrium

(Right Atrium, Left Atrium)

A

The upper chambers of the heart where blood is received from the veins.

The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood, while the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs.

The atrium contracts to push blood into the ventricles.

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3
Q

Define:

ventricle

(Right Ventricle, Left Ventricle)

A

The lower chambers of the heart that pump blood out to the lungs (right ventricle) and the rest of the body (left ventricle).

The ventricle must contract efficiently to maintain proper blood flow.

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4
Q

Define:

endocardium

A

The thin, inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, providing a smooth surface for blood flow.

The doctor examined the endocardium for signs of infection during the echocardiogram.

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5
Q

Define:

myocardium

A

The muscular middle layer of the heart wall, responsible for the contraction and pumping of blood.

A healthy myocardium is essential for effective heart function.

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6
Q

Define:

epicardium

A

The outer layer of the heart wall that also forms part of the pericardium, providing a protective layer.

The epicardium helps to reduce friction between the heart and surrounding structures.

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7
Q

Define:

pericardium

A

The fibrous sac that surrounds the heart, consisting of an outer fibrous layer and an inner serous layer, providing protection and reducing friction.

Fluid accumulation in the pericardium can lead to cardiac tamponade.

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8
Q

Define:

septum (Interatrial Septum, Interventricular Septum)

A

The wall dividing the left and right sides of the heart; the interatrial septum separates the atria, and the interventricular septum separates the ventricles.

A defect in the septum can lead to mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.

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9
Q

Define:

valves (Tricuspid Valve, Mitral Valve, Pulmonary Valve, Aortic Valve)

A

Structures that open and close to regulate blood flow through the heart chambers and to the arteries; include the tricuspid, mitral, pulmonary, and aortic valves.

The valves prevent backflow during the cardiac cycle.

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10
Q

Define:

chordae tendineae

A

Tendinous cords that connect the papillary muscles to the heart valves, helping to keep the valves closed during ventricular contraction.

The rupture of chordae tendineae can lead to severe valve dysfunction.

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11
Q

Define:

papillary muscles

A

Muscle projections in the ventricles that anchor the chordae tendineae and help control the opening and closing of the heart valves.

The papillary muscles contract to stabilize the valves during systole.

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12
Q

Define:

coronary arteries

A

Arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle itself, branching off from the aorta.

Blockage in the coronary arteries can lead to a heart attack.

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13
Q

Define:

coronary veins

A

Veins that collect deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle and return it to the right atrium.

The coronary veins play a crucial role in cardiac circulation.

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14
Q

Define:

sinoatrial (SA) node

A

The natural pacemaker of the heart located in the right atrium, responsible for initiating the electrical impulses that trigger heartbeats.

The SA node regulates the heart rate by controlling the timing of contractions.

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15
Q

Define:

atrioventricular (AV) node

A

A cluster of cells located between the atria and ventricles that transmits electrical impulses from the atria to the ventricles, coordinating their contractions.

The AV node acts as a gatekeeper to ensure proper timing of heartbeats.

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16
Q

Define:

bundle of His

A

A collection of heart muscle cells that transmits electrical impulses from the AV node to the ventricles, facilitating coordinated contractions.

Blockage in the bundle of His can lead to arrhythmias.

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17
Q

Define:

Purkinje fibers

A

Specialized fibers that distribute electrical impulses throughout the ventricles, causing them to contract in a coordinated manner.

The rapid conduction through Purkinje fibers ensures efficient blood ejection from the heart.

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18
Q

Define:

cardiac apex

A

The pointed end of the heart, formed by the left ventricle, directed downward and to the left.

The stethoscope was placed at the cardiac apex to listen for heart sounds.

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19
Q

Define:

cardiac base

A

The broad, upper part of the heart where the major blood vessels enter and exit, opposite the apex.

The cardiac base is where the aorta and pulmonary arteries arise.

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20
Q

Define:

systemic circulation

A

The part of the circulatory system that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body and returns deoxygenated blood back to the heart.

Systemic circulation is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues.

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21
Q

Define:

pulmonary circulation

A

The portion of the circulatory system responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs and returning oxygenated blood back to the heart.

Pulmonary circulation is crucial for gas exchange in the lungs.

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22
Q

Define:

arteries

A

Blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the tissues of the body, except for the pulmonary arteries.

The arteries expand and contract to accommodate blood flow.

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23
Q

Define:

veins

A

Blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart from the body, except for the pulmonary veins.

Veins have valves that prevent backflow as blood returns to the heart.

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24
Q

Define:

capillaries

A

The smallest blood vessels where the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste occurs between blood and tissues.

Capillaries connect arteries and veins and facilitate nutrient delivery.

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25
# Define: venules
Small blood vessels that **collect deoxygenated blood** from capillaries and transport it to veins. ## Footnote *Venules* play a key role in returning blood to the heart.
26
# Define: arterioles
Small arteries that **branch out from larger arteries** and lead to capillaries, regulating blood flow and pressure. ## Footnote *Arterioles* constrict or dilate to control blood flow to tissues.
27
# Define: superior vena cava
A large vein that carries **deoxygenated blood from the upper body to the right atrium of the heart**. ## Footnote The *superior vena cava* is essential for returning blood from the head and arms.
28
# Define: inferior vena cava
A large vein that carries **deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the right atrium of the heart**. ## Footnote The *inferior vena cava* collects blood from the legs and abdomen.
29
# Define: pulmonary arteries
Arteries that carry **deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs** for oxygenation. ## Footnote The *pulmonary arteries* are unique as they transport deoxygenated blood.
30
# Define: pulmonary veins
Veins that carry **oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the left atrium of the heart**. ## Footnote The *pulmonary veins* are vital for returning oxygen-rich blood to the heart.
31
# Define: oxygenated blood
Blood that has been **enriched with oxygen** in the lungs and is carried from the lungs to the heart and then to the rest of the body. ## Footnote *Oxygenated blood* is essential for sustaining cellular metabolism.
32
# Define: deoxygenated blood
Blood that is **low in oxygen and high in carbon dioxide**, typically returning from the body to the heart for reoxygenation. ## Footnote *Deoxygenated blood* is transported to the lungs for gas exchange.
33
# Define: hemodynamics
The study of **blood flow and the forces involved in circulation**, including pressure, volume, and resistance. ## Footnote Understanding *hemodynamics* is crucial for diagnosing cardiovascular conditions.
34
# Define: cardiac output
The **volume of blood the heart pumps per minute**, calculated as the product of heart rate and stroke volume. ## Footnote *Cardiac output* is a key indicator of heart performance.
35
# Define: stroke volume
The amount of **blood ejected by the left ventricle of the heart in one contraction**. ## Footnote *Stroke volume* can be affected by factors such as blood volume and heart muscle strength.
36
# Define: heart rate
The number of **times the heart beats per minute**, an important measure of cardiac function and fitness level. ## Footnote The athlete's *heart rate* decreased significantly after training.
37
# Define: blood pressure
The force exerted by **circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels**, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). ## Footnote *Blood pressure* is a critical parameter to monitor for cardiovascular health.
38
# Define: systole
The phase of the cardiac cycle when the **heart muscle contracts and pumps blood out of the chambers**. ## Footnote During *systole*, the ventricles contract to send blood to the lungs and body.
39
# Define: diastole
The phase of the cardiac cycle when the **heart muscle relaxes and the chambers fill with blood**. ## Footnote *Diastole* is crucial for allowing the heart to refill with blood.
40
# Define: hypertension
A condition characterized by **persistently elevated blood pressure**, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. ## Footnote *Hypertension* is often managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
41
# Define: hypotension
Abnormally **low blood pressure**, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, and inadequate blood flow to organs. ## Footnote *Hypotension* can occur due to dehydration or blood loss.
42
# Define: atherosclerosis
A condition where **arteries become narrowed and hardened** due to the buildup of plaque, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. ## Footnote *atherosclerosis* can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
43
# Define: arteriosclerosis
The **thickening and hardening of arterial walls**, leading to reduced elasticity and increased blood pressure. ## Footnote *Arteriosclerosis* is often associated with aging and hypertension.
44
# Define: coronary artery disease (CAD)
A condition caused by the **narrowing of coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis**, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. ## Footnote *Coronary artery disease* can result in angina or heart attacks.
45
# Define: myocardial infarction (heart attack)
A medical emergency where **blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked**, causing damage to the heart muscle. ## Footnote A *myocardial infarction* requires immediate medical attention to restore blood flow.
46
# Define: angina pectoris
Chest pain or discomfort caused by **reduced blood flow to the heart muscle**, often a symptom of coronary artery disease. ## Footnote *Angina pectoris* can be triggered by physical exertion or stress.
47
# Define: congestive heart failure (CHF)
A chronic condition where the **heart is unable to pump effectively**, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other body tissues. ## Footnote Patients with *congestive heart failure* may experience shortness of breath and swelling.
48
# Define: Arrhythmia
An **irregular heartbeat** that can be too fast, too slow, or erratic. ## Footnote The patient was diagnosed with *arrhythmia* after experiencing episodes of dizziness.
49
# Define: Tachycardia
A condition where the **heart beats faster than normal,** typically over 100 beats per minute. ## Footnote During the examination, the doctor noted that the patient had *tachycardia* at rest.
50
# Define: Bradycardia
A **slower than normal heart rate**, usually defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute. ## Footnote The athlete's heart rate was measured at 50 bpm, indicating *bradycardia*.
51
# Define: Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)
A common type of arrhythmia characterized by **rapid and irregular beating of the atria**. ## Footnote The cardiologist confirmed that the patient was experiencing *atrial fibrillation* during the ECG.
52
# Define: Ventricular Fibrillation
A life-threatening arrhythmia where the **ventricles quiver ineffectively instead of pumping blood**. ## Footnote The patient went into *ventricular fibrillation* and required immediate defibrillation.
53
# Define: Cardiomyopathy
A disease of the heart muscle that affects its **size, shape, and ability to pump blood**. ## Footnote The patient's *cardiomyopathy* was diagnosed after several imaging studies.
54
# Define: Endocarditis
An **infection** of the **inner lining** of the **heart chambers and valves**. ## Footnote The doctor suspected *endocarditis* due to the patient's persistent fever and heart murmur.
55
# Define: Pericarditis
**Inflammation of the pericardium**, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart. ## Footnote The patient presented with chest pain suggestive of *pericarditis*.
56
# Define: Myocarditis
**Inflammation of the heart muscle**, which can affect the heart's ability to pump blood. ## Footnote The biopsy revealed evidence of *myocarditis* in the patient.
57
# Define: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
A condition where a **blood clot forms in a deep vein**, usually in the legs. ## Footnote The patient was diagnosed with *deep vein thrombosis* after complaining of leg swelling.
58
# Define: Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
A **blockage** in one of the **pulmonary arteries in the lungs**, often due to blood clots. ## Footnote The sudden onset of shortness of breath indicated a possible *pulmonary embolism*.
59
# Define: Stroke (Ischemic, Hemorrhagic)
A medical emergency where **blood flow to the brain is interrupted**, leading to brain damage. Ischemic strokes are caused by blockages, while hemorrhagic strokes are due to bleeding. ## Footnote The patient suffered an *ischemic stroke*, leading to immediate hospitalization.
60
# Define: Aneurysm
An **abnormal bulge in the wall of a blood vessel**, which can rupture and cause serious complications. ## Footnote The imaging revealed a *aneurysm* in the abdominal aorta.
61
# Define: Thrombosis
The **formation of a blood clot inside a blood vessel**, which can obstruct blood flow. ## Footnote The physician explained that *thrombosis* can lead to serious complications if not treated.
62
# Define: Embolism
The **obstruction of a blood vessel by a clot** or foreign material that has traveled from another site in the body. ## Footnote An *embolism* can occur if a clot dislodges from a vein and travels to the lungs.
63
# Define: Valvular Heart Disease
A condition involving **damage** to or a defect in one of the **four heart valves**. ## Footnote The echocardiogram revealed signs of *valvular heart disease* in the patient.
64
# Define: Rheumatic Heart Disease
**Damage to the heart valves and heart muscle** caused by rheumatic fever, which is a complication of untreated strep throat. ## Footnote The patient’s history of untreated strep infections led to *rheumatic heart disease*.
65
# Define: Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
A circulatory condition where **narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs**, often causing pain. ## Footnote The patient experienced claudication, indicating *peripheral artery disease*.
66
# Define: Hyperlipidemia
An abnormally **high level of lipids (fats) in the blood**, which can increase the risk of heart disease. ## Footnote The lipid panel showed that the patient had *hyperlipidemia*.
67
# Define: Heart Block
A condition where the **electrical signals in the heart are partially or completely blocked**. ## Footnote The ECG indicated that the patient had *heart block*.
68
# Define: Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
A test that records the **electrical activity of the heart** over a period of time. ## Footnote The doctor ordered an *electrocardiogram* to assess the patient's heart rhythm.
69
# Define: Echocardiogram
An **ultrasound test** that uses sound waves to create images of the **heart's structure and function**. ## Footnote The *echocardiogram* showed that the heart was functioning normally.
70
# Define: Stress Test (Exercise Stress Test)
A test that measures the **heart's response to physical stress**, usually through exercise or medication. ## Footnote The cardiologist recommended a *stress test* to evaluate the patient's heart health.
71
# Define: Holter Monitor
A **portable device** that continuously records the **heart's rhythms for 24 hours or more**. ## Footnote The patient was given a *Holter monitor* to wear for a day to track their heart rate.
72
# Define: Cardiac Catheterization
A procedure used to diagnose and treat certain heart conditions by **inserting a catheter into the heart's chambers**. ## Footnote The doctor performed *cardiac catheterization* to assess the coronary arteries.
73
# Define: Angiography
An imaging technique used to **visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs**, often using a contrast dye. ## Footnote The *angiography* revealed blockages in the coronary arteries.
74
# Define: Coronary Angiogram
A type of angiography specifically used to **visualize the coronary arteries of the heart**. ## Footnote The *coronary angiogram* confirmed significant narrowing of the arteries.
75
# Define: CT Angiography
A non-invasive imaging technique that uses **computed tomography to visualize blood vessels**. ## Footnote The physician ordered a *CT angiography* to assess the patient's vascular health.
76
# Define: Cardiac MRI
An imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create **detailed images of the heart**. ## Footnote The *cardiac MRI* provided clear images of the heart's structure.
77
# Define: Cardiac Enzymes (Troponin, CK-MB)
**Proteins released into the blood** when the heart muscle is damaged, often used to diagnose heart attacks. ## Footnote Elevated *cardiac enzymes* indicated that the patient had suffered a heart attack.
78
# Define: Lipid Panel
A blood test that measures the **levels of lipids in the blood**, including cholesterol and triglycerides. ## Footnote The doctor reviewed the *lipid panel* to assess the patient's risk for heart disease.
79
# Define: Blood Pressure Measurement
The process of measuring the **pressure in the arteries**, indicating the health of the cardiovascular system. ## Footnote The nurse took the patient's *blood pressure measurement* before the examination.
80
# Define: Pulse Oximetry
A non-invasive method to measure the **oxygen saturation level in the blood**. ## Footnote The *pulse oximetry* reading showed that the patient's oxygen levels were normal.
81
# Define: Doppler Ultrasound
An imaging technique that uses sound waves to measure **blood flow and detect blockages in blood vessels**. ## Footnote The *Doppler ultrasound* indicated reduced blood flow in the patient's leg.
82
# Define: Tilt Table Test
A test used to evaluate how the **body responds to changes in position**, often to assess causes of fainting. ## Footnote The physician recommended a *tilt table test* after the patient experienced syncope.
83
# Define: Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
A test that compares the **blood pressure in the ankle with the blood pressure in the arm** to assess for peripheral artery disease. ## Footnote The *ankle-brachial index* test confirmed the diagnosis of peripheral artery disease.
84
# Define: Thallium Stress Test
A type of stress test that uses a radioactive substance to evaluate **blood flow to the heart during exercise**. ## Footnote The results of the *thallium stress test* indicated areas of reduced blood flow.
85
# Define: Ventriculography
An imaging procedure that evaluates the **function of the ventricles of the heart** using contrast dye. ## Footnote The *ventriculography* showed impaired ventricular function.
86
# Define: Phonocardiogram
A recording of the **sounds made by the heart during the cardiac cycle**, used to diagnose heart conditions. ## Footnote The *phonocardiogram* revealed abnormal heart sounds indicative of a murmur.
87
# Define: Ischemia
A condition characterized by **insufficient blood flow to a tissue**, often leading to damage. ## Footnote The ECG changes suggested *ischemia* in the heart muscle.
88
# Define: Infarction
The process of **tissue death due to lack of blood supply**, commonly associated with heart attacks. ## Footnote The imaging confirmed *infarction* of the heart muscle.
89
# Define: Plaque (Atherosclerotic Plaque)
A **buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries**, which can restrict blood flow. ## Footnote The angiogram showed significant *plaque* buildup in the coronary arteries.
90
# Define: Cholesterol
A type of **fat found in the blood**, which is necessary for building cells but can lead to heart disease in excess. ## Footnote High levels of *cholesterol* were noted in the patient's lipid panel.
91
# Define: LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
Often referred to as '**bad cholesterol**', it can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. ## Footnote The patient's *LDL* levels were above the recommended range, indicating increased heart disease risk.
92
# Define: HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)
Known as '**good cholesterol**', it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. ## Footnote The doctor advised the patient to increase their *HDL* levels for better heart health.
93
# Define: Triglycerides
A type of **fat found in the blood**, with **high levels** increasing the risk of heart disease. ## Footnote The lipid panel revealed elevated *triglycerides* in the patient.
94
# Define: Vasoconstriction
The **narrowing of blood vessels**, which can increase blood pressure and reduce blood flow. ## Footnote *Vasoconstriction* can occur in response to cold temperatures.
95
# Define: Vasodilation
The **widening of blood vessels**, which can decrease blood pressure and increase blood flow. ## Footnote *Vasodilation* is often triggered by heat or exercise.
96
# Define: Cardiac Arrest
A **sudden loss of heart function**, which can lead to death if not treated immediately. ## Footnote The patient went into *cardiac arrest* and required CPR.
97
# Define: Fibrillation
A **rapid and irregular contraction of the heart muscles**, which can lead to ineffective pumping. ## Footnote *Fibrillation* can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
98
# Define: Anticoagulant
A **medication that helps prevent blood clots** from forming by thinning the blood. ## Footnote The doctor prescribed an *anticoagulant* to reduce the risk of stroke.
99
# Define: Thrombolytic Therapy
A **treatment that dissolves blood clots** that are blocking blood vessels, often used in emergencies. ## Footnote *Thrombolytic therapy* was administered to the patient following a heart attack.
100
# Define: Stent
A **small mesh tube inserted into a blocked artery** to keep it open and restore blood flow. ## Footnote The cardiologist placed a *stent* in the patient's coronary artery.
101
# Define: Bypass Surgery (CABG - Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting)
A surgical procedure that creates a **new route for blood to flow to the heart** by bypassing blocked arteries. ## Footnote The patient underwent *bypass surgery* to improve blood flow to the heart.
102
# Define: Pacemaker
A **device** implanted in the chest to help **regulate the heartbeat** in individuals with arrhythmias. ## Footnote The patient received a *pacemaker* to manage their bradycardia.
103
# Define: Defibrillator (ICD - Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator)
A **device** implanted in the chest that **monitors and corrects life-threatening arrhythmias**. ## Footnote The patient had an *ICD* implanted to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
104
# Define: Syncope
A temporary loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood flow to the brain, commonly known as **fainting**. ## Footnote The patient experienced *syncope* after standing up too quickly.
105
# Define: Cyanosis
A **bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes** due to low oxygen levels in the blood. ## Footnote The patient exhibited *cyanosis* around the lips, indicating oxygen deprivation.
106
# Define: Claudication
**Pain or cramping in the legs** due to inadequate blood flow, often occurring during exercise. ## Footnote The patient reported *claudication* when walking short distances.
107
# Define: Murmur
An **unusual sound heard during a heartbeat**, often indicating a problem with the heart valves. ## Footnote The physician detected a *murmur* during the patient's routine check-up.
108
# Define: Palpitations
The **sensation of feeling your own heart beating**, which can be irregular or rapid. ## Footnote The patient reported experiencing *palpitations* during periods of anxiety.

Medical Terminology (16 decks)

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