Main Functions of the cardiovascular system
Main Functions:
1. Oxygen and nutrients distribution
2. Carry cell wastes and CO2
3. Transport water, electrolytes, hormones and enzymes
4. Protect against disease
5. Prevent hemorrhage
6. Regulate blood temperature
COMPONENTS of the cardiovascular system
Length of Heart
12 cm (5”)
Width of Heart
9 cm (3.5”) at broadest
Thickness of Heart
6 cm (2.5”)
Mass of Heart
250 g (female);
300 g (male)
About — of the mass of the heart lies to the left of the body’s midline.
two-thirds
EXTERNAL PARTS OF THE HEART
DISTINCT SURFACES OF THE HEART
Locations of the heart (6)
Membrane that surrounds and protects the heart
PERICARDIUM
Two main parts of the Pericardium
Composed of tough, inelastic, dense irregular connective tissue.
Fibrous Pericardium
Functions of the Fibrous Pericardium
❖ Prevents overstretching of the heart
❖ Provides protection
❖ Anchors heart in the mediastinum
Double layer of thinner and more delicate membrane
Serous Pericardium
Layers of the Serous Pericardium
The visceral layer of the serous pericardium is also known as
Epicardium
Reduces friction between layers of parietal and visceral layer.
Pericardial fluid
LAYERS OF THE HEART
Texture of the epicardium
Smooth, slippery texture
What the epicardium (layer) contains
Blood vessels, lymphatics, and vessels that supply the myocardium
Two tissue layers of the Epicardium
Visceral layer vs Fibroelastic tissue and adipose tissue (Epicardium tissue layer)
Mesothelium meaning
Simple squamous epithelial cells