Structure of Coronary Arteries The coronary arteries are susceptible to atherosclerosis as well as its complications, particularly intravascular thrombosis, often resulting in myocardial infarction. Atherosclerosis is a form of arteriosclerosis characterized by initial involvement of the inner layer of the…
Early Embryonic Development In humans, as in most other primates, fertilization takes place in the distal part of the uterine tube, near its fimbriated end, about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation. The fertilized ovum, or zygote, is transported to…
Radiology and Catheter-Based Angiocardiography Radiology Radiologic examination is an essential part of the evaluation of cardiac disease. The size of the heart and identification of chamber enlargement and pericardial, cardiac, and coronary calcification, as well as information on heart function…
Cardiovascular Examination Events in the Cardiac Cycle: Left Ventricle The events occurring during the cardiac cycle are driven by the left ventricular (LV) pressure. The mitral valve closes and results in the first heart sound (S 1 ) when LV…
Thorax Before describing the anatomy of the heart, it is helpful to review other anatomic features of the thoracic cavity and organs. The thorax proper constitutes the upper part of the body or trunk, with a shape between a barrel…