Infundibulum (heart)

Infundibulum (heart)

The Infundibulum is a significant part of the heart's anatomy, specifically within the right ventricle. It is also known as the conus arteriosus, a term that is also used to refer to a similar structure in the hearts of some other animals.

Anatomy

The infundibulum is the upper anterior part of the right ventricle of the heart. It leads to the pulmonary trunk, which carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. The infundibulum is smooth and cone-shaped, and is separated from the rest of the ventricle by the supraventricular crest.

Diagram of the human heart. The infundibulum is the upper part of the right ventricle.

Function

The primary function of the infundibulum is to direct blood from the right ventricle into the pulmonary trunk. It plays a crucial role in the cardiovascular system, facilitating the flow of blood from the heart to the lungs where it is oxygenated.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities of the infundibulum can lead to various heart conditions. For example, Infundibular Pulmonary Stenosis is a condition where the infundibulum is narrowed, restricting blood flow to the lungs. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

See also

• Heart
• Right ventricle
• Pulmonary trunk
• Cardiovascular system

External links

• Infundibulum at AnatomyExpert.com