Venous valves
Venous Valves
Venous valves (pronunciation: /ˈviː.nəs ˈvælvz/) are small structures within the veins that prevent the backflow of blood, ensuring its one-way flow towards the heart.
Etymology
The term 'venous' is derived from the Latin word 'vena', meaning 'vein', and 'valves' comes from the Latin 'valva', meaning 'leaf of a door'.
Function
Venous valves are crucial in the circulatory system. They open to allow blood to flow towards the heart and close to prevent it from flowing backward. This is particularly important in the legs and arms, where the force of gravity could otherwise cause blood to flow back down the veins.
Structure
Venous valves are bicuspid, meaning they have two flaps, or cusps. These cusps are made of endothelium, a thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels.
Related Terms
- Vein: A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.
- Endothelium: The thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels.
- Heart: The organ that pumps blood throughout the body.
- Blood: The red liquid that circulates in the arteries and veins, carrying oxygen and nutrients to and waste materials away from all body tissues.
Pathology
When venous valves fail to function properly, it can lead to conditions such as varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Venous valves
- Wikipedia's article - Venous valves
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