The term "incisura cardiaca" is a medical term used to describe a notch or indentation found on the top surface of the heart. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. The word "incisura" is pronounced as in-suh-SHOO-ruh, while "cardiaca" is pronounced as kar-dee-YAH-kuh. Understanding the phonetic spelling of the term can be helpful in accurately pronouncing and spelling it, especially for medical professionals who regularly use medical terminology.
The term "incisura cardiaca" refers to a specific anatomical feature or notch located on the medial aspect of the heart, particularly on the left atrium. It is also known as the "cardiac notch" or "aortic notch."
The incisura cardiaca is a small, curved depression or groove that can be found near the base of the heart, where the great vessels, namely the aorta and pulmonary trunk, emerge. It is formed by the indentation caused by the aortic arch as it passes superiorly and the pulmonary artery as it courses towards the lungs. This anatomical structure allows for the passage of these large vessels, providing a space or cavity through which they can traverse.
This cardiac notch is of utmost significance in many medical disciplines, primarily in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, as its evaluation is crucial in diagnosing and treating various cardiac conditions. For instance, in echocardiography, the incisura cardiaca serves as a landmark for the measurement of certain cardiac parameters, such as left atrial size or aortic diameter. In surgical procedures, this structure may be used as a reference point during the placement of arterial cannulas or when performing aortic valve replacement.
In summary, the incisura cardiaca is an anatomical feature located on the left side of the heart, resulting from the groove created by the aortic arch and pulmonary artery. It holds clinical importance in the evaluation and management of cardiac disorders.
The cardiac notch on the anterior border of the lower part of the upper lobe of the left lung, giving space for the pericardium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "incisura cardiaca" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The term "incisura" derives from the Latin word "incisus", meaning "to cut into". It refers to a notch or cut made in something.
The word "cardiaca" originates from the Greek word "kardia", meaning "heart". It is a noun form of "kardio", which relates to the heart or cardiac.
When combined, "incisura cardiaca" refers to the "cardiac notch" or "cleft" that is present on the medial border of the left lung, where the heart projects into the thoracic cavity.