nodusområdet

The nodusområdet refers to a specific anatomical region within the vertebrate heart, primarily associated with the conducting system. It is situated in the upper part of the cardiac septum, close to the atrioventricular valves. This area is characterized by specialized cardiac muscle cells that have a reduced number of myofibrils and an increased number of sarcoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. These cellular features are crucial for its function in the electrical conduction of the heart.

The nodusområdet is a key component of the heart's electrical impulse generation and transmission pathway. It is comprised of the sinoatrial (SA) node and the atrioventricular (AV) node, along with the connecting internodal pathways. The SA node, often considered the primary pacemaker of the heart, initiates the electrical impulse. This impulse then travels through the internodal pathways to the AV node.

The AV node, located within the nodusområdet, plays a critical role in delaying the electrical impulse before it is transmitted to the ventricles. This delay is essential to ensure that the atria have completed their contraction and emptied their blood into the ventricles before ventricular contraction begins. Without this delay, the pumping efficiency of the heart would be significantly compromised. The nodusområdet's integrity and proper functioning are therefore vital for maintaining a coordinated and effective heartbeat.