The atrioventricular aperture, also known as the atrioventricular orifice or the AV aperture, is the opening between the atria and ventricles of the heart. This opening is bordered by the tricuspid valve on the right side of the heart and the mitral valve on the left side of the heart.
During the cardiac cycle, the atrioventricular aperture opens to allow blood to flow from the atria into the ventricles. The tricuspid and mitral valves prevent the backflow of blood from the ventricles into the atria. When the ventricles contract, the atrioventricular aperture closes, and the semilunar valves located at the entrance to the aorta and pulmonary artery open to allow blood to be pumped out of the heart.
The proper functioning of the atrioventricular aperture and its associated valves is essential for the normal functioning of the heart and the circulation of blood throughout the body. Any defects or abnormalities in these structures can lead to various cardiac conditions, such as atrioventricular block, mitral valve prolapse, or tricuspid regurgitation.
