Pulmonic valve

Pulmonic Valve

The Pulmonic Valve (also known as the pulmonary valve) is one of the four valves in the heart. It is located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. Its primary function is to regulate the flow of blood from the heart to the lungs.

Structure

The pulmonic valve is a semilunar valve, meaning it has a half-moon shape. It consists of three cusps or leaflets, which are thin flaps of tissue. These cusps are named the anterior, left, and right cusps. They open to allow blood to flow from the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery and close to prevent blood from flowing back into the heart.

Function

The primary function of the pulmonic valve is to ensure unidirectional blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. When the right ventricle contracts (systole), the pressure causes the pulmonic valve to open, allowing blood to flow into the pulmonary artery and on to the lungs. When the right ventricle relaxes (diastole), the pressure drops and the pulmonic valve closes, preventing backflow of blood into the right ventricle.

Clinical Significance

Diseases of the pulmonic valve include pulmonic stenosis and pulmonary regurgitation. Pulmonic stenosis is a condition where the valve is abnormally narrow, restricting blood flow. Pulmonary regurgitation is a condition where the valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow back into the right ventricle. Both conditions can lead to heart failure if not treated.

See Also

• Heart Valves
• Right Ventricle
• Pulmonary Artery
• Pulmonic Stenosis
• Pulmonary Regurgitation