keuhkovaltimoläppä

Keuhkovaltimoläppä, also known as the pulmonary valve, is one of the four valves in the human heart. It is located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. The primary function of the keuhkovaltimoläppä is to ensure unidirectional blood flow from the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery, preventing backflow into the ventricle during diastole. This valve opens when the right ventricle contracts, allowing deoxygenated blood to be pumped to the lungs for oxygenation. When the ventricle relaxes, the valve closes to stop the blood from returning.

The keuhkovaltimoläppä is a semilunar valve, meaning it has three cusps, or leaflets, that resemble half-moons. These cusps are thin and flexible and are attached to the wall of the pulmonary artery. The opening and closing of the valve are passive processes, driven by the pressure differences within the heart chambers and the pulmonary artery.

Dysfunction of the keuhkovaltimoläppä can lead to various medical conditions. Pulmonary stenosis, where the valve narrows, restricts blood flow to the lungs and can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. Pulmonary regurgitation, on the other hand, occurs when the valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak back into the right ventricle. This can lead to an enlarged right ventricle and heart failure over time. Congenital defects are common causes of keuhkovaltimoläppä abnormalities. Diagnosis typically involves echocardiography, which allows visualization of the valve's structure and function. Treatment options range from medication to surgical repair or replacement of the valve.