The mitral orifice is a valve found in the heart that separates the left atrium from the left ventricle. It is pronounced /ˈmɪtrəl ˈɒrɪfɪs/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word "mitral" comes from the Latin word "mitra" meaning "headband" which refers to the shape of the valve. "Orifice" comes from the Latin word "orificium" meaning "mouth, opening" which accurately describes the function of the valve. Correct spelling of this word is important in medical settings to ensure clear communication among healthcare professionals.
The mitral orifice is a anatomical term used in reference to the human heart and cardiovascular system. It specifically denotes an essential opening located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Also known as the bicuspid orifice, the mitral orifice is shaped like a narrow oval and is surrounded by a valve called the mitral valve, which consists of two leaflets (flaps). The function of the mitral orifice is to regulate the flow of blood in a unidirectional manner during the pumping action of the heart.
During diastole, or the relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle, the mitral valve opens, allowing the oxygenated blood from the left atrium to flow into the left ventricle, where it is subsequently pumped out to the rest of the body during systole. This ensures efficient blood circulation and prevents backflow of blood into the atrium. The proper functioning of the mitral orifice is crucial for maintaining healthy cardiac output and preventing conditions such as mitral regurgitation, where blood leaks back into the atrium due to a faulty mitral valve.
Various medical procedures, such as mitral valve repair or replacement, may be indicated when there are abnormalities affecting the mitral orifice. These abnormalities can include stenosis (narrowing) or prolapse (bulging) of the leaflets, which can impair the normal functioning of the mitral valve and compromise overall heart function.
The left atrioventricular aperture.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "mitral" comes from the Latin word "mitra", which means "a headdress" or "a turban". The mitral valve in the heart was named so because of its resemblance to a bishop's mitre.
The word "orifice" has its roots in the Latin word "orificium", which means "an opening" or "a mouth". It is derived from the combination of the Latin words "oris" meaning "mouth" and "facere" meaning "to make".
When these two words are combined, "mitral orifice" refers to the opening or passage between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart, which is surrounded by the mitral valve.