The term "chorda tendinea" refers to the tendinous cords that connect the papillary muscles to the cusps of the heart valves. The correct spelling of "chorda tendinea" is a crucial factor in the medical field where accurate terminology is essential. The word is pronounced as /ˈkɔr.də tɛn.di.ˈnɛ.a/ with the first syllable "chor" having a hard "c" sound and the second syllable "da" being pronounced as "duh." The third syllable, "ten," has a short "e" sound, while the fourth syllable, "di," ends with an "i" sound.
Chorda tendinea is a term that originates from Latin, where "chorda" means "cord" or "string," and "tendinea" refers to "of or relating to tendons." In anatomy, the term "chorda tendinea" refers to the strong fibrous cords or strings that connect the papillary muscles of the heart to the cusps of the atrioventricular (AV) valves. These AV valves, also known as the mitral and tricuspid valves, are responsible for the regulation of blood flow between the atria and ventricles of the heart.
The chorda tendinea play a crucial role in the proper functioning of the heart valves. When the ventricles contract during systole, the papillary muscles also contract, pulling on the chordae tendineae and preventing the AV valves from being forced into the atria. This prevents the backflow of blood into the atria, ensuring that blood flows efficiently in one direction.
The chorda tendinea are composed of dense connective tissue containing collagen fibers, which provide strength and flexibility. They are attached to the free edges of the cusps of the AV valves by small fibrous structures called chordal attachments or papillary muscles. The number and arrangement of the chordae tendineae may vary, depending on the species.
Overall, the chorda tendinea assist in the effective and coordinated movement of the heart valves, ensuring optimal blood circulation throughout the cardiovascular system.
One of several fine tendinous cords stretching between the walls of the ventricles, often from the apices of the papillary muscles, and the ventricular surfaces of the cusps of the auriculoventricular valves.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "chorda tendinea" is derived from Latin.
"Chorda" comes from the Latin word "chordā", which means "cord" or "rope". "Tendinea" is derived from the Latin word "tendinum", which means "tendon".
So, "chorda tendinea" can be translated as "tendon-like cord" or "tendon cord". In anatomy, it refers to the strong, fibrous cords that connect the papillary muscles to the atrioventricular valves in the heart, helping to regulate their movement.