Atrium cordis

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Atrium Cordis is a term used in anatomy to refer to the upper chambers of the heart. The heart is divided into four chambers: two atria (plural of atrium) and two ventricles. The atrium cordis, or simply the atria, play a crucial role in the cardiac cycle.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The heart's atria are the two upper chambers. They are separated by a thin wall of tissue known as the interatrial septum. Each atrium has a different role:

  • Right atrium: Receives deoxygenated blood from the body through the vena cava and pumps it into the right ventricle.
  • Left atrium: Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs through the pulmonary veins and pumps it into the left ventricle.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the atria is to receive blood returning to the heart and to play a role in the blood circulation process. When the atria contract, they push blood into the ventricles. This process is known as atrial systole.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Diseases and conditions that affect the atria can have serious implications for heart function. These include:

  • Atrial fibrillation: A condition characterized by irregular and often rapid heart rate.
  • Atrial flutter: Similar to atrial fibrillation, but the rhythm in your atria is more organized and less chaotic.
  • Atrial septal defect: A birth defect that causes a hole in the wall between the heart's atria.

See also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD