Organ
Aortic valve
The valve at the left ventricular outlet
High-yield
The right and left aortic sinuses usually give rise to coronary arteries; the third sinus is termed non-coronary.
Overview
The aortic root contains three semilunar cusps in the usual heart. Ventricular ejection separates them; reversal of the pressure gradient brings their margins together. The cusps have no chordae or papillary-muscle attachments.
Reference facts
- Location
- At the transition from left ventricular outflow tract to aortic root
- Parts
- Usually right coronary, left coronary and non-coronary cusps, with adjoining sinuses and commissures
- Blood supply
- Thin cusp tissue depends substantially on diffusion; small vessels can be present, especially near its attachments
- Innervation
- Autonomic and sensory fibers occur in valvar nerve networks, with uneven distribution
- Relations
- Close to the anterior mitral leaflet and membranous septal conduction region; posterior to the pulmonary outlet
- Function
- Permits systolic ejection and limits aortic-to-ventricular backflow during diastole
Clinical correlation
A narrowed aortic valve increases resistance to ventricular ejection. Incomplete closure allows diastolic backflow into the left ventricle; stenosis and regurgitation can occur together.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the aortic valve located?
At the transition from left ventricular outflow tract to aortic root.
What does the aortic valve do?
Permits systolic ejection and limits aortic-to-ventricular backflow during diastole.
What are the parts of the aortic valve?
Usually right coronary, left coronary and non-coronary cusps, with adjoining sinuses and commissures.
What is the blood supply of the aortic valve?
Thin cusp tissue depends substantially on diffusion; small vessels can be present, especially near its attachments.