Intervenous tubercle

The Intervenous Tubercle is a small, conical projection located in the upper part of the right atrium of the heart. It is also known as the Tubercle of Lower, named after the British anatomist James Thomas Lawrie Lower who first described it.

Etymology

The term "Intervenous Tubercle" is derived from the Latin words "inter", meaning between, and "venous", referring to the veins. The term "tubercle" is derived from the Latin "tuberculum", meaning a small swelling or lump. The term thus refers to the small lump located between the veins in the right atrium of the heart.

Anatomy

The Intervenous Tubercle is located in the right atrium of the heart, between the openings of the superior vena cava and the inferior vena cava. It is a small, conical projection that is directed forward and to the right. The tubercle acts as a natural deflector, directing the blood from the superior vena cava towards the tricuspid valve, and preventing it from flowing into the inferior vena cava.

Function

The primary function of the Intervenous Tubercle is to direct the flow of blood in the right atrium. It acts as a natural deflector, directing the blood from the superior vena cava towards the tricuspid valve, and preventing it from flowing into the inferior vena cava. This ensures that the blood flows in the correct direction, towards the right ventricle, where it can be pumped to the lungs for oxygenation.

Clinical Significance

While the Intervenous Tubercle does not typically present any clinical issues, its presence can be significant in certain medical procedures. For example, during cardiac catheterization, the tubercle can serve as a landmark to guide the insertion of the catheter.

See Also

• Heart
• Right atrium
• Superior vena cava
• Inferior vena cava
• Tricuspid valve
• Right ventricle
• Lungs
• Cardiac catheterization