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How does the tricuspid valve control blood flow on the right side of the heart?
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Circulatory system
Human circulatory system.
The tricuspid valve is an atrioventricular valve located between the right atrium and the right ventricle, designed to ensure blood flows in only one direction and to prevent backflow (reflux) into the atrium.12
The valve consists of three irregularly shaped flaps, or cusps, made of endocardium reinforced with dense connective tissue. Its operation is controlled by the following mechanism:2
- Opening: As the right atrium contracts, blood is propelled through the valve into the right ventricle.2
- Closing: When the right ventricle contracts, the resulting pressure forces blood backward against the valve flaps. This pressure pushes the flaps upward until they meet and unite, creating a complete partition between the atrium and the ventricle.2
- Restraint: To prevent the flaps from billowing or opening into the atrium under high pressure, they are anchored by tendinous cords known as chordae tendineae, which connect the leaflets to papillary muscles within the ventricular wall.2
This coordinated movement ensures efficient circulation by maintaining unidirectional flow from the atrium to the ventricle.2