Papillary muscle

Definition

Papillary muscles are small, nipple-shaped muscles located in the ventricles of the heart. They attach to the cusps of the atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid valves) via the chordae tendineae and contract to prevent inversion or prolapse of these valves during ventricular contraction.

Related terms

Atrioventricular Valves: These are valves located between the atria and ventricles of the heart that prevent backflow of blood from the ventricles into the atria.

Chordae Tendineae: These are thin, strong connective tissue strings that connect papillary muscles to atrioventricular valve cusps, aiding in valve function during heart contractions.

Ventricular Contraction: This is a phase of the cardiac cycle where ventricles contract to pump blood out of the heart to lungs and body, significantly influenced by papillary muscle action