Aortic sinus

Aortic Sinus

The Aortic Sinus also known as the sinus of Valsalva is an anatomical term referring to the dilations or bulges in the wall of the aorta at the level of the semilunar valve. These sinuses are of great clinical significance as they are involved in several cardiovascular conditions.

Etymology

The term "Aortic Sinus" is derived from the Latin words "Aorta" meaning the main artery in the body, and "Sinus" meaning a cavity or hollow space. The term "sinus of Valsalva" is named after Antonio Maria Valsalva, an Italian anatomist who first described these sinuses in the 18th century.

Anatomy

The aortic sinuses are located just above the aortic valve, which is the valve that controls the flow of blood out of the left ventricle of the heart and into the aorta. There are typically three aortic sinuses: the left coronary sinus, the right coronary sinus, and the non-coronary sinus. Each sinus gives rise to its corresponding coronary artery.

Clinical Significance

The aortic sinuses are involved in several cardiovascular conditions. An aneurysm of the aortic sinus, also known as a sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, can cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. This condition can be life-threatening if the aneurysm ruptures. The aortic sinuses are also involved in the surgical procedure known as the Ross procedure, in which a diseased aortic valve is replaced with the patient's own pulmonary valve.

Related Terms

• Aorta
• Semilunar valve
• Left ventricle
• Coronary artery
• Aneurysm
• Ross procedure

See Also

• Cardiovascular system
• Heart valve
• Cardiac surgery

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