Chapter 2: Anatomy and Physiology of the Cardiovascular System

• Section 2.1: Cardiac Anatomy

  • 2.1.1: Gross Anatomy of the Heart
    • Chambers and inter-ventricular septum
    • Aortic, mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves
    • Pericardium and great vessels
  • 2.1.2: Microscopic Anatomy
    • Myocyte structure and function
    • Intercalated discs and gap junctions
  • 2.1.3: Coronary Arteries
    • Left and right coronary artery anatomy
    • Collateral circulation and variations

• Section 2.2: Myocardial Contraction and Relaxation

  • 2.2.1: Molecular Mechanisms
    • Actin and myosin filaments
    • Role of troponin and tropomyosin
  • 2.2.2: Excitation-Contraction Coupling
    • T-tubules and sarcoplasmic reticulum
    • Calcium influx and release

• Section 2.3: The Cardiac Cycle and Hemodynamics

  • 2.3.1: Phases of the Cardiac Cycle
    • Systole (isovolumetric contraction, ejection)
    • Diastole (isovolumetric relaxation, filling)
  • 2.3.2: Pressure-Volume Loops
    • Interpreting normal vs. pathological loops
    • Effects of valvular disease and heart failure
  • 2.3.3: Principles of Hemodynamics
    • Cardiac output, stroke volume
    • Preload and afterload

• Section 2.4: Cardiac Conduction System

  • 2.4.1: Anatomy and Function of Nodes
    • SA node as the primary pacemaker
    • AV node and its delay
  • 2.4.2: The His-Purkinje System
    • His bundle and bundle branches
    • Purkinje fibers and rapid ventricular conduction
  • 2.4.3: Autonomic Regulation
    • Sympathetic and parasympathetic control of heart rate
    • Baroreceptor reflex