Overview
This lecture introduces the anatomy and functions of the cardiovascular system, focusing on the heart’s structure, blood flow, and basic physiological principles.
Cardiovascular System Overview
- The cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood, and blood vessels.
- Its main function is to transport oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and wastes throughout the body.
- The heart acts as a pump to propel blood through two main circuits: pulmonary (lungs) and systemic (body).
Heart Anatomy and Structure
- The heart has four chambers: two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers).
- The right side of the heart pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs; the left side pumps oxygenated blood to the body.
- Valves (tricuspid, pulmonary, mitral, aortic) ensure one-way blood flow through the heart.
- The septum divides the right and left sides of the heart.
Blood Flow Through the Heart
- Blood enters the right atrium from the body, moves to the right ventricle, and is pumped to the lungs.
- Oxygenated blood returns from the lungs to the left atrium, moves to the left ventricle, and is then pumped to the body.
- Valves prevent backflow at each step of the process.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Atria — upper chambers of the heart receiving blood.
- Ventricles — lower chambers pumping blood out of the heart.
- Pulmonary circuit — pathway carrying blood between heart and lungs.
- Systemic circuit — pathway carrying blood between heart and rest of body.
- Septum — wall separating right and left sides of the heart.
- Valve — structure preventing backward flow of blood.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review diagrams of heart chambers and blood flow pathways.
- Read assigned textbook section on heart anatomy and cardiovascular circuits.