Trabeculae carneae

Internal anatomy of the heart showing trabeculae carneae.

Trabeculae carneae are rounded or irregular muscular columns which project from the inner surface of the right and left ventricles of the heart. These structures are distinct from the papillary muscles and the chordae tendineae.

Structure

The trabeculae carneae are found on the inner walls of the ventricles. They are more prominent in the right ventricle than in the left. These muscular ridges are thought to help prevent suction that would impair the heart's ability to pump efficiently. They also play a role in the conduction of electrical impulses through the heart muscle.

Function

The trabeculae carneae contribute to the heart's ability to contract and pump blood. By preventing the walls of the ventricles from sticking together during contraction, they ensure that the heart chambers can fill properly with blood. Additionally, they may help in the distribution of electrical impulses across the heart muscle, aiding in synchronized contraction.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the trabeculae carneae can be associated with certain heart conditions. For example, excessive trabeculation can be seen in left ventricular noncompaction, a rare cardiomyopathy. This condition can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and other complications.

Related pages

• Heart
• Ventricles of the heart
• Papillary muscles
• Chordae tendineae

References

• Moore, K. L., & Dalley, A. F. (2006). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
• Netter, F. H. (2014). Atlas of Human Anatomy. Elsevier.