Circulatory System - Applied Anatomy

Question 1

What is pericardial effusion/cardiac tamponade?

Answer 1

Collection of fluid in the pericardial cavity
Compresses the heart and restricts venous filling during diastole - reduces cardiac output

Question 2

How can a pericardial effusion be drained?

Answer 2

Puncturing the left fifth or sixth intercostal space just lateral to the sternum, or in the angle between the xiphoid process and left costal margin, with the needle directed upwards, backwards and to the left

Question 3

What is mitral stenosis?

Answer 3

Narrowing of the valve between the two left heart chambers

Mitral stenosis causes the left atrium to enlarge and may compress the esophagus and cause dysphagia

Question 4

Location where the ligature is passed through

Answer 4

Transverse sinus around aorta and pulmonary trunk

Question 5

Explain the following radiograph

Answer 5

Detrocardia: Condition where the apex of the heart is on the right side

May occur in combination with situs inversus where all thoracic and abdominal viscera are mirror images of normal

Question 6

What may cause thrombosis of the coronary artery?

Answer 6

Myocardial ischemia infarction and ventricular fibrillation

Question 7

What is angina pectoris?

Answer 7

Incomplete obstruction of coronary arteries
Associated with pain in the precordial region and down the medial side of the left arm and forearm

Question 8

Purpose of coronary angiography

Answer 8

Determines the site(s) of narrowing or occlusion of the coronary arteries or their branches

Question 9

Purpose of angioplasty

Answer 9

Helps in removal of small blockage
Done using small stent or small inflated balloon through a catheter passed upwards
Enters in femoral artery → aorta → coronary artery

Question 10

Purpose of coronary bypass

Answer 10

Used in cases of large segments or multiple sites of blockage
Done using either great saphenous vein or internal thoracic artery as graft(s)