CVS Physiology Flashcards
(48 cards)
What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system (CVS)?
To pump blood through the heart and facilitate blood flow through the pulmonary and systemic circulation
The cardiovascular system is crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing waste products.
How many chambers does the heart have?
4 chambers: 2 atria (right and left) and 2 ventricles (right and left)
The design of the heart as a double pump allows for efficient separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
What anatomical features separate the left and right sides of the heart?
Atrial septum and interventricular septum
These septa ensure that blood from the left and right sides of the heart do not mix.
What is the role of the atrioventricular (AV) valves?
To allow blood to flow from atria to ventricles and prevent backflow of blood
The AV valves include the tricuspid valve and the mitral (bicuspid) valve.
What are the two types of AV valves?
- Tricuspid Valve
- Mitral (Bicuspid) Valve
The tricuspid valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle, while the mitral valve is between the left atrium and left ventricle.
What is the function of the semi-lunar valves?
To control blood flow from the ventricles to the arteries
The pulmonary valve and aortic valve are examples of semi-lunar valves.
Fill in the blank: The _______ valve regulates blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle.
Tricuspid
This valve has three flaps and is crucial for proper blood flow.
What is the purpose of the chordae tendineae?
To connect the papillary muscles to the ventricles and support the AV valves
They help prevent the eversion of valve flaps during ventricular contraction.
What happens to the AV valves during ventricular contraction?
They are pushed closed due to increased intra-ventricular pressure
This mechanism prevents backflow into the atria.
What are the three layers of the heart muscle?
- Epicardium
- Myocardium
- Endocardium
Each layer has unique structures and functions, contributing to the heart’s overall function.
What is the significance of intercalated discs in cardiac muscle?
They allow for mechanical and electrical coupling between cardiac cells
This enables coordinated contractions of the heart muscle.
What is the advantage of the spiral arrangement of cardiac muscle fibers?
It produces a wringing effect that efficiently pushes blood upwards towards major arteries
This arrangement enhances the heart’s pumping efficacy.
What is coronary artery disease?
A condition where coronary arteries cannot deliver adequate blood due to plaques
This can lead to angina pectoris or myocardial infarction.
What is angina pectoris?
Chest pain due to inadequate oxygen supply to the heart
It is often a warning sign of coronary artery disease.
What are the three types of cells in the heart’s conduction system?
- Nodal cells (P cells, T cells)
- Purkinje cells
- Contractile cells
These cells facilitate the heart’s electrical impulses and contraction.
What is the normal firing rate of the SA node?
60-100 bpm
The SA node is the primary pacemaker of the heart.
What is an arrhythmia?
An abnormal heartbeat resulting from issues in the heart’s electrical system
Symptoms may include palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
What diagnostic tool is used to evaluate heart rhythm?
ECG (electrocardiogram)
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart.
What is the primary function of arteries?
Carry blood away from the heart
What is the largest artery in the body?
Aorta
What layer of an artery wall consists of smooth muscle?
Middle layer
What do arterioles regulate?
Blood flow and blood pressure
What occurs in capillaries?
Nutrient and gas exchange
True or False: Capillary walls are two cells thick.
False
