Foramen of Panizza

Foramen of Panizza

The Foramen of Panizza is a physiological structure found in the heart of animals belonging to the order Crocodylia, which includes crocodiles, alligators, and gharials. This anatomical feature is a hole that connects the left and right aorta as they leave the heart.

Anatomy

The Foramen of Panizza is located between the left and right aorta before these vessels exit the heart. It allows blood from the right aorta to flow into the left aorta. This anatomical feature is unique to the Crocodylia order.

File:Crocodylia heart anatomy.png

Anatomical diagram of a crocodile's heart, showing the Foramen of Panizza

Function

The primary function of the Foramen of Panizza is to allow for the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. This is contrary to the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood seen in the hearts of mammals and birds. The ability to mix blood allows crocodiles to stay submerged underwater for extended periods.

Clinical significance

While the Foramen of Panizza is a normal part of crocodilian anatomy, a similar structure in human hearts, known as a patent foramen ovale, is considered a heart defect. This condition allows blood to bypass the lungs, leading to lower oxygen levels in the blood.

See also

• Heart
• Crocodylia
• Patent foramen ovale