parietalpericardium

Parietal pericardium

The parietal pericardium is the outer layer of the pericardial sac that encloses the heart. It is a tough, fibrous membrane composed primarily of dense connective tissue, which provides mechanical protection and structural support to the heart. The parietal pericardium is continuous with the visceral pericardium (or epicardium) at the roots of the great vessels coming from the heart.

Anatomically, the parietal pericardium lines the internal surface of the fibrous pericardium, which is the outermost layer of the pericardial sac. It attaches centrally to the diaphragm via the pericardiacophrenic ligament and superiorly to the great vessels, including the aorta, pulmonary arteries, and veins. Its inferior margins form the pericardial reflections around the roots of the great vessels.

The pericardial cavity lies between the parietal and visceral layers and contains serous fluid that lubricates the heart’s movements during cardiac contractions. The parietal pericardium plays a vital role in maintaining the positioning of the heart within the thoracic cavity, preventing excessive movement, and reducing friction during heartbeats.

Clinically, inflammation of the parietal pericardium, known as pericarditis, can cause chest pain and other cardiovascular symptoms. The pericardium can also be involved in conditions like pericardial effusion or constrictive pericarditis, which may require medical intervention.

Overall, the parietal pericardium is an essential component of the pericardial sac, contributing to the protection, stability, and optimal functioning of the heart.