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Ch. 18 The Cardiovascular System: The Heart
Chapter 17, Problem 19

a. Name the elements of the intrinsic conduction system of the heart in order, beginning with the pacemaker. b. What is the important function of this conduction system?

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1
Identify the pacemaker of the heart, which is the sinoatrial (SA) node, located in the right atrium.
Next, recognize that the electrical impulse travels from the SA node to the atrioventricular (AV) node, situated at the junction of the atria and ventricles.
From the AV node, the impulse moves to the atrioventricular bundle (also known as the bundle of His), which is located in the interventricular septum.
The impulse then travels down the right and left bundle branches, which extend through the interventricular septum toward the apex of the heart.
Finally, the impulse reaches the Purkinje fibers, which spread throughout the ventricular myocardium, causing the ventricles to contract.
The important function of this conduction system is to ensure the heart beats in a coordinated and efficient manner, allowing for effective pumping of blood throughout the body.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Intrinsic Conduction System

The intrinsic conduction system of the heart is a network of specialized cardiac muscle cells that generate and conduct electrical impulses. It includes key components such as the sinoatrial (SA) node, atrioventricular (AV) node, bundle of His, bundle branches, and Purkinje fibers. This system ensures that the heart beats in a coordinated and efficient manner, allowing for effective blood circulation.
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Sinoatrial (SA) Node

The sinoatrial (SA) node, often referred to as the heart's natural pacemaker, is located in the right atrium. It initiates electrical impulses that trigger heartbeats, setting the rhythm for the entire heart. The SA node's activity is influenced by the autonomic nervous system, which adjusts heart rate based on the body's needs, such as during exercise or rest.
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Function of the Conduction System

The primary function of the intrinsic conduction system is to regulate the timing and sequence of heart contractions. By coordinating the contraction of the atria and ventricles, it ensures efficient blood flow through the heart and to the rest of the body. This system is crucial for maintaining a stable heart rhythm and responding to physiological demands.
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