key term - Aortic valve

Definition

The aortic valve is a one-way valve located between the left ventricle of the heart and the aorta, which prevents blood from flowing back into the heart once it has been pumped out. It consists of three cusps that open and close with each heartbeat.

Related terms

Left Ventricle: The chamber of the heart that pumps oxygenated blood through the aortic valve into the aorta and then to the rest of the body.

Aorta:

The largest artery in the body that carries oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to be distributed throughout the body.

Valvular Heart Disease: A condition characterized by damage to or a defect in one of the four heart valves, including the aortic valve, which can affect blood flow through the heart