The Pericardium Flashcards
How does the pericardium fix the heart?
It has attachments to the
- diaphragm
- sternum
- tunica adventitia of the great vessels
Functions of the pericardium?
Fixes the heart in the mediastinum and limits its motion
Prevents overfilling of the heart
Lubrication - reduce friction of the heart as it moves within the thoracic cavity
Protection from infection
Features of the fibrous pericardium?
Connected with the central tendon of the diaphragm
Made of tough connective tissue
Relatively non-distensible
What can the fibrous pericardium cause clinically?
Cardiac tamponade
Two layers of the serous pericardium?
Outer parietal layer
Inner visceral layer
What is the serous pericardium made up of?
Mesothelium - single layer of pericardium
What is in the pericardial cavity?
Lubricating fluid
Innervation of the pericardium?
Phrenic nerve (C3-5)
