The spelling of the word "limbus fossae ovalis" can be a bit tricky due to its Latin roots. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be pronounced as /ˈlɪmbʌs ˈfɒsiː əʊˈveɪlɪs/. "Limbus" means "border" in Latin, while "fossae" means "groove" and "ovalis" means "oval-shaped". Therefore, the phrase refers to the oval-shaped groove at the border of the fossa ovalis in the heart. It's important to remember and spell this term correctly in the medical field to ensure clear communication between professionals.
Limbus fossae ovalis, also known as the oval fossa or the annulus ovalis, is a term used in human anatomy to describe a small depression located on the interatrial septum of the heart. The interatrial septum separates the two upper chambers of the heart, the right atrium and the left atrium. The limbus fossae ovalis is found on the right atrial side of the septum.
Anatomically, the limbus fossae ovalis is an oval-shaped or oval-like shallow depression with a well-defined border. It is a remnant of the fetal structure known as the foramen ovale, which is present in the fetal heart to allow blood to bypass the lungs before birth. The foramen ovale usually closes shortly after birth when the pressure changes in the heart due to the initiation of lung function.
The limbus fossae ovalis is an anatomical landmark commonly used in diagnostic imaging such as echocardiograms to locate and assess the closure of the foramen ovale. In some cases, the closure may be incomplete or delayed, leading to a condition called patent foramen ovale (PFO) where there is an abnormal communication between the atria. PFOs are associated with various medical conditions, including stroke and migraine, and may require medical intervention.
In summary, the limbus fossae ovalis is a small depression on the right atrial side of the interatrial septum, marking the remnant of the fetal structure known as the foramen ovale, which is important for fetal circulation.
Annulus ovalis, a muscular ring surrounding the fossa ovalis in the wall of the right auricle (atrium) of the heart.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.