Understanding Heart Blood Flow Mechanics

Aug 15, 2024

Blood Flow of the Heart

Introduction

  • The heart is divided into two sides: the right and left sides, each with distinct functions.
  • Right side: Transports deoxygenated blood to the lungs.
  • Left side: Distributes oxygenated blood received from the lungs throughout the body.

Right Side Blood Flow

  1. Blood Entry

    • Blood enters the right side through the superior vena cava and inferior vena cava.
    • Deoxygenated blood is collected in the right atrium.
  2. Valve Passage

    • Blood moves from the right atrium through the tricuspid valve ("Try before you buy") into the right ventricle.
  3. Pulmonary Circulation

    • From the right ventricle, blood is pushed through the pulmonic valve into the pulmonary artery.
    • Blood travels to the lungs for oxygenation.
  4. Gas Exchange in Lungs

    • Occurs in alveoli sacs and capillaries.
    • Oxygen is absorbed and carbon dioxide is expelled from the blood.

Left Side Blood Flow

  1. Oxygenated Blood Entry

    • Oxygenated blood returns from the lungs via the pulmonary vein to the left atrium.
  2. Valve Passage

    • Blood passes from the left atrium through the bicuspid (mitral) valve into the left ventricle.
  3. Systemic Circulation

    • The left ventricle pumps blood through the aortic valve into the aorta.
    • Blood is distributed throughout the body to replenish organs and tissues.

Conclusion

  • Understanding the sequence of valves and circulatory pathways is crucial for mastering the blood flow of the heart.
  • For further practice, a quiz is available to test knowledge on heart blood flow.
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