Isovolumic ventricular relaxation phase

Definition

The isovolumic ventricular relaxation phase is a stage of the cardiac cycle where the ventricles relax but all heart valves are closed, preventing blood from flowing into or out of the ventricles. This phase occurs right after the ventricular ejection phase and ends when the mitral valve opens.

Related terms

Cardiac Cycle:

The series of events that occur from one heartbeat to another, including contraction and relaxation phases that keep blood circulating through the heart and body.

Ventricular Ejection Phase: A phase of the cardiac cycle where the ventricles contract, pushing blood into the aorta and pulmonary artery, leading to blood being circulated throughout the body.

Mitral Valve: A valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart that allows blood to flow from the atrium into the ventricle but prevents backflow