Terminal sulcus of hear

Terminal sulcus of heart

Latin	sulcus terminalis cordis

The terminal sulcus of the heart, also known as the sulcus terminalis cordis, is a prominent anatomical feature found on the surface of the heart. It is a groove that separates the atria from the ventricles and plays a crucial role in the electrical conduction system of the heart.

Anatomy

The terminal sulcus is a shallow groove that encircles the heart horizontally. It starts at the superior vena cava and extends towards the inferior vena cava, forming a crescent shape. The sulcus separates the atria, which are located above it, from the ventricles, which are located below it.

Function

The terminal sulcus serves as a landmark for the division between the atria and the ventricles. It is an important anatomical structure for the proper functioning of the heart's electrical conduction system. The sulcus contains a specialized group of cells called the sinoatrial (SA) node, which is responsible for initiating the electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm.

The SA node, also known as the heart's natural pacemaker, is located near the superior end of the terminal sulcus. It generates electrical signals that travel through the atria, causing them to contract and pump blood into the ventricles. From there, the electrical signals pass through the atrioventricular (AV) node, located near the inferior end of the sulcus, and continue down the bundle of His and its branches, ultimately reaching the ventricles and causing them to contract.

Clinical Significance

The terminal sulcus is an important landmark for cardiac surgeons during procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting and valve replacement. It helps them identify the boundaries between the atria and ventricles, allowing for precise surgical interventions.

Additionally, abnormalities or disruptions in the terminal sulcus can lead to cardiac arrhythmias or conduction disorders. For example, if the SA node is not functioning properly, it can result in a condition known as sinus node dysfunction, which can cause irregular heart rhythms. In some cases, surgical interventions may be required to correct these abnormalities.

See Also

• Heart
• Sinoatrial node
• Atrioventricular node
• Coronary artery bypass grafting
• Valve replacement

References

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