The spelling of "papillary muscle" might seem a bit complicated due to its two consecutive "p"s and varying vowel sounds. However, the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) helps clarify its pronunciation. The first syllable is pronounced as /pəˈpɪləri/, where the "a" sound in "pap" is reduced to a schwa /ə/. The second syllable, "lary," is pronounced as /ˈmʌsəl/, where the "a" sound is pronounced as the short "u" /ʌ/. Overall, "papillary muscle" is pronounced as /pəˈpɪləri ˈmʌsəl/.
Papillary muscles are small, cone-shaped muscles located within the ventricles of the heart. They are primarily found in the left and right ventricles, with usually two to three papillary muscles in each ventricle. These muscles play a crucial role in the functioning of the heart valves known as the atrioventricular valves, specifically the mitral valve in the left side of the heart and the tricuspid valve in the right side of the heart.
The main function of the papillary muscles is to help stabilize the atrioventricular valves and prevent them from inverting or prolapsing during the contraction of the ventricles. They achieve this by attaching via cord-like structures called chordae tendineae to the cusps or flaps of the valves. This arrangement allows the papillary muscles to exert tension on the chordae tendineae, effectively holding the valve flaps in place and ensuring a proper one-way flow of blood between the chambers of the heart.
These muscles receive blood supply from the coronary arteries, which are responsible for delivering oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Any disruption of blood flow to the papillary muscles can lead to dysfunction, resulting in conditions such as mitral valve prolapse or significant leakage of blood backward through the valve, which can impair heart function.
Overall, papillary muscles serve an essential role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of the heart valves, contributing to the efficient pumping of blood throughout the body.
The word "papillary muscle" has its roots in Latin.
The term "papillary" comes from the Latin word "papilla", which means "nipple" or "small protuberance". This refers to the small and nipple-like appearance of these muscles.
The word "muscle" has its origins in the Latin word "musculus", which means "little mouse". This is believed to have been coined due to the way muscles move and contract, resembling small mice under the skin.
Therefore, "papillary muscle" translates to "nipple-shaped muscle". These muscles, found in the heart, are so named because they have small, nipple-like projections called papillae that attach to the chordae tendineae, which in turn connect to the heart valves.