Heart Valves and Their Function

Overview

• Heart Valves: There are four valves in the heart.
  • Right Side: Tricuspid valve and Pulmonic valve
  • Left Side: Mitral valve and Aortic valve

Right Side Valves

• Tricuspid Valve & Pulmonic Valve
  • Generally not involved in adult heart disease.
  • Sometimes involved in congenital heart diseases in babies.

Valve Function

• One-Way Valves: Open to allow blood flow forward, close to prevent backward flow.
  • Analogy: Panama Canal locks – open to allow forward movement, close to prevent backward movement.

Left Side Valves

• Mitral Valve

  • Allows blood to move from the upper chamber to the lower chamber.
  • Closes to prevent backflow when the heart pumps.
  • Issues can arise if the heart enlarges, causing valve leaflets not to touch.
    • Mild Cases: Treated medically.
    • Severe Cases: Valve replacement may be necessary.

• Aortic Valve

  • Allows blood to exit the heart.
  • Closes to prevent blood from returning to the heart.
  • Common issue: Gradual narrowing of the valve.
  • Another issue: Enlargement of the aorta causing valve leakage.

Summary

• Valves as Doors: Open to permit blood flow between chambers or to the aorta; close to prevent backflow.
• Valves can be involved in disease processes affecting heart function.