atrioventrikular

Atrioventricular is a term used in anatomy and medicine to describe relations between the atria and ventricles of the heart. It is commonly applied to structures and processes that connect or separate the atria and ventricles, including the atrioventricular conduction system and the atrioventricular valves.

Atrioventricular valves refer to the valves located between the atria and the ventricles. The mitral valve sits between the left atrium and left ventricle, while the tricuspid valve sits between the right atrium and right ventricle. These valves prevent backflow into the atria during ventricular contraction and are supported by chordae tendineae and papillary muscles. Proper valve function is essential for efficient cardiac output and hemodynamic stability.

The atrioventricular conduction system comprises the AV node and the His-Purkinje network. The AV node serves as the electrical gateway between the atria and ventricles and is located in the right atrium near the base of the interatrial septum, close to the opening of the coronary sinus. It introduces a deliberate delay to allow complete atrial contraction and ventricular filling. From the AV node, impulses travel through the bundle of His, which penetrates the fibrous skeleton and divides into right and left bundle branches to coordinate ventricular contraction.

Clinical relevance includes atrioventricular block, where conduction through the AV node or His-Purkinje system is impaired, potentially causing bradycardia or dyssynchrony. Treatments may involve pacing or ablation in certain tachyarrhythmias. Valvular disease affecting the AV valves can lead to regurgitation or stenosis.