Moderator band (heart)

Moderator Band (also known as the septomarginal trabecula) is a muscular band of heart tissue found in the right ventricle of the heart. It is a significant part of the cardiac anatomy and plays a crucial role in the electrical conduction system of the heart.

Anatomy

The Moderator Band is a muscular band that spans the right ventricle of the heart. It originates from the base of the anterior papillary muscle and extends to the ventricular septum. This band is unique to the right ventricle and is not found in the left ventricle.

Function

The primary function of the Moderator Band is to carry the right bundle branch of the AV node to the anterior papillary muscle. This ensures the simultaneous contraction of the anterior papillary muscle with the rest of the myocardium, thus preventing the inversion or prolapse of the tricuspid valve.

In addition to this, the Moderator Band also helps in reducing the stress of the ventricular wall by distributing the tension through the band.

Clinical Significance

The Moderator Band's role in the electrical conduction system of the heart makes it significant in the study of various cardiac conditions. Any abnormality or damage to the Moderator Band can lead to arrhythmias or irregular heart rhythms.

Moreover, the Moderator Band can be a useful landmark during certain surgical procedures on the heart, such as pacemaker implantation.

See Also

• Heart
• Right Ventricle
• Cardiac Anatomy
• AV Node
• Arrhythmias
• Pacemaker