The septum is a wall of muscle and fibrous tissue that divides the left and right sides of the heart. It is an important part of the cardiovascular system, as it helps to separate the two sides of the heart and control the amount of blood that flows between them. It is made up of two layers: an inner layer, called the endocardium, and an outer layer, called the myocardium. The septum also contains the atrioventricular valves, which help to regulate the flow of blood through the heart.
The development of the septum begins during the embryonic stage and is completed by the fifth week of gestation. During this time, the developing heart is divided into four chambers: the atria, the ventricles, the atrioventricular valves, and the septum. The septum is formed by two parts: the atrial septum, which separates the atria from the ventricles, and the ventricular septum, which separates the right and left ventricles.
The most common problem associated with the septum is a septal defect, which occurs when the walls of the septum fail to form correctly. This can lead to abnormal blood flow between the chambers of the heart, which can cause a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath. Depending on the severity of the condition, septal defects can be treated with medications, surgery, or a combination of both.
In addition to septal defects, the septum can also be affected by a variety of other conditions, such as cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, and genetic disorders. These conditions can lead to changes in the structure of the septum, which can result in abnormal blood flow and other symptoms.
The septum is an important part of the cardiovascular system, and its proper functioning is essential for good health. Abnormalities in the septum can have serious consequences, and it is important to seek medical attention if any symptoms of a septal defect or other cardiac condition are present.
References
Chiale, P. A., & Wessels, A. (2018). Anatomy and physiology of the heart. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Kloner, R. A., & Braunwald, E. (2012). Heart disease: A textbook of cardiovascular medicine (Vol. 1). Elsevier Health Sciences.
Lönn, L., & Sjögren, J. (2012). Anatomy and physiology of the heart. Merete Heltberg & Co.
Peters, B., & Srivastava, S. (2014). Cardiac embryology. In Cardiovascular Medicine (pp. 57-69). Elsevier.
Rajamannan, N. M. (2012). Cardiomyopathies. Elsevier Health Sciences.