Aortic valve
Immerse yourself in heart anatomy as showcased in this 360-degree video captured from the XR Heart Anatomy app. 3D models available in 3D with our app 3D Heart Anatomy
Aortic valve
The aortic valve and the root of aorta are linked structures that play a crucial role in the heart’s function, ensuring the one-way flow of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta, and hence to the rest of the body.
Root of Aorta
The root of aorta serves as the anatomical foundation for the aortic valve, connecting the heart to the systemic circulation. It is a sophisticated structure composed of several components that work together to support the function of the aortic valve and ensure efficient blood flow.
Upon examination of the aortic valve, we can see that, similarly to the pulmonary valve, it has three leaflets ( Left coronary leaflet, Right coronary leaflet, noncoronary leaflet ). It is positioned next to the mitral valve, guarding the aortic orifice.
Aortic orifice
The aortic orifice is a circular aperture positioned near the left atrioventricular orifice, from which it is separated by the anterior leaflet of left atrioventricular valve.
As mentioned earlier the aortic valve has three leaflets
Right coronary leaflet
The right coronary leaflet, this is the leaflet that is positioned in front and to the right.
Left coronary leaflet
The left coronary leaflet, this is the leaflet that is positioned in front and to the right.
Noncoronary leaflet
The noncoronary leaflet, this is the aortic valve leaflet that is positioned behind.
Nodules of semilunar leaflets of aortic valve
A closer look at the aortic valve’s semilunar leaflets, reveals structured components essential for its operation. At the core of each leaflet, positioned midway along the free margin is a central nodule. This is known as nodule of semilunar leaflets or nodule of Arantius.
Lunules of semilunar leaflets of aortic valve
Next to these nodules are the lunules, crescent-shaped areas that extend from the nodule along the free margin of the leaflets. These lunules, allow the valves to seal effectively and prevent backflow of blood.
Commissures of semilunar leaflets of aortic valve
Completing the structure, the commissures are the areas where the edges of two leaflets meet and adjoin with the wall of the aorta. This junction is fundamental to the cohesive operation of the valve.
Exploring the area surrounding the aortic valve reveals the presence of the Aortic sinuses of Valsalva ( Right coronary aortic sinus, Left coronary aortic sinus, Noncoronary aortic sinus ).
Aortic sinuses (Sinuses of Valsalva)
The aortic sinuses, also known as the Sinuses of Valsalva, are three widenings located at the base of the aorta. These sinuses are crucial for heart function, with two of them serving as the origin points for the coronary arteries ( Left coronary artery and Right coronary artery ). The sinuses are named the right coronary aortic sinus, left coronary aortic sinus, and posterior or noncoronary aortic sinus. The unique structure of these sinuses allows for the effective distribution of blood, including the essential delivery of blood into the coronary arteries which supply the heart muscle itself.
Right coronary aortic sinus
The right coronary aortic sinus is the one positioned on the right. It gives origin to the right coronary artery.
Left coronary aortic sinus
Similarly, the left coronary aortic sinus is positioned on the left. It gives rise to the left coronary artery.
Noncoronary aortic sinus
The noncoronary aortic sinus, positioned behind the right coronary sinus and left coronary sinus, stands out as it does not give origin to any coronary artery. Sometimes referred to as the noncoronary sinus.
Interleaflet triangles of aortic valve
Taking a closer look between the aortic sinuses, we can observe the interleaflet triangles. These are fibrous anatomical structures situated at the base of the aortic valve leaflets. Defined by the junctions where the leaflet edges meet and attach.
Relationship to Cardiac Cycle
During ventricular systole, the phase of the cardiac cycle when the ventricular muscles contract, the aortic valve opens. This opening is crucial to allow blood to flow from the left ventricle into the aorta and subsequently to the rest of the body.
Conversely, during ventricular diastole, the phase when the ventricles relax, the aortic valve closes. This closure prevents blood from flowing back into the left ventricle from the aorta, ensuring unidirectional blood flow and maintaining systemic circulation efficiency.