Fossa ovalis
Fossa Ovalis
The Fossa Ovalis (pronounced: /ˈfɒsə oʊˈveɪlɪs/) is a depression seen in the right atrium of the heart, which is a remnant of a thin fibrous sheet that forms during fetal development known as the foramen ovale.
Etymology
The term "Fossa Ovalis" is derived from Latin, where "Fossa" means trench or ditch and "Ovalis" refers to its oval shape.
Anatomy
The Fossa Ovalis is located in the Septum Secundum, which is the wall separating the two atria of the heart. It is an oval-shaped depression that is most prominent in the fetal heart. After birth, the pressure differential between the left and right atria causes the Foramen Ovale to close, leaving the Fossa Ovalis as a remnant.
Function
In the fetal heart, the Fossa Ovalis allows blood to bypass the non-functioning fetal lungs and go directly from the right atrium to the left atrium. After birth, when the lungs begin to function, the Fossa Ovalis no longer has a physiological role.
Related Terms
- Foramen Ovale: An opening in the fetal heart that allows blood to bypass the lungs. It closes after birth, leaving the Fossa Ovalis.
- Septum Secundum: The wall that separates the two atria of the heart, where the Fossa Ovalis is located.
- Atria: The two upper chambers of the heart.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fossa ovalis
- Wikipedia's article - Fossa ovalis
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