Heart Valve Locations

Understanding heart valve locations is key in Anatomy and Physiology II. These valves ensure proper blood flow through the heart, preventing backflow and maintaining efficient circulation, which is vital for oxygen delivery and overall cardiovascular health.

1. Tricuspid valve

   • Located between the right atrium and right ventricle.
   • Composed of three leaflets (cusps) that prevent backflow of blood.
   • Plays a crucial role in the pulmonary circulation by allowing deoxygenated blood to flow into the right ventricle.

2. Pulmonary valve

   • Situated between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery.
   • Consists of three semilunar cusps that open to allow blood flow to the lungs.
   • Closes to prevent backflow of blood into the right ventricle after contraction.

3. Mitral valve (Bicuspid valve)

   • Found between the left atrium and left ventricle.
   • Composed of two leaflets, allowing for efficient blood flow from the atrium to the ventricle.
   • Prevents backflow of oxygenated blood into the left atrium during ventricular contraction.

4. Aortic valve

   • Located between the left ventricle and the aorta.
   • Contains three semilunar cusps that open to allow oxygenated blood to enter the systemic circulation.
   • Closes to prevent backflow into the left ventricle after blood is ejected.

5. Right atrioventricular valve

   • Another name for the tricuspid valve, emphasizing its location and function.
   • Ensures unidirectional blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle.
   • Critical for maintaining proper pressure and volume in the right heart chambers.

6. Left atrioventricular valve

   • Another term for the mitral valve, highlighting its role in the left heart.
   • Facilitates the flow of oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle.
   • Essential for effective cardiac output and systemic circulation.

7. Semilunar valves

   • Refers collectively to the pulmonary and aortic valves.
   • Characterized by their crescent shape and three cusps.
   • Function to prevent backflow of blood into the ventricles after contraction.

8. Valve of the inferior vena cava (Eustachian valve)

   • Located at the entrance of the inferior vena cava into the right atrium.
   • A remnant of fetal circulation that may help direct blood flow during development.
   • Generally non-functional in adults but can be present in varying degrees.

9. Valve of the coronary sinus (Thebesian valve)

   • Found at the opening of the coronary sinus into the right atrium.
   • Helps regulate blood flow from the coronary veins into the right atrium.
   • Plays a minor role in preventing backflow during atrial contraction.