Bundle of his

Bundle of His is a collection of heart muscle cells specialized for electrical conduction. It transmits the electrical impulses from the AV node (located between the atria and the ventricles) to the point of the apex of the fascicular branches via the bundle branches. The Bundle of His is an important part of the electrical conduction system of the heart, as it transmits signals from the atria to the ventricles of the heart, and there are few, if any, alternate routes for this signal transmission.

Structure

The Bundle of His is located in the endocardium on the right side of the interatrial septum near the atrioventricular node. It proceeds down the interventricular septum, and it is here that it splits into two bundle branches, the left and the right bundle branches. These branches lead towards the apex of the heart and then spread out over the inner walls of the ventricles, causing them to contract.

Function

The primary function of the Bundle of His is to conduct electrical signals from the atria to the ventricles. This is a crucial part of the cardiac cycle, as it ensures that the ventricles contract after the atria, which in turn ensures efficient blood flow through the heart and out to the rest of the body.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Bundle of His can cause a heart block, a type of arrhythmia in which the signal from the atria to the ventricles is impaired. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including dizziness, fainting, or even sudden cardiac death. Treatment for heart block often involves the implantation of a pacemaker.