Morphological variations of papillary muscles in the mitral valve complex in human cadaveric hearts.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Papillary muscle rupture and dysfunction can lead to complications of prolapsed mitral valve and mitral regurgitation. Multiple operative procedures of the papillary muscles, such as resection, repositioning and realignment, are carried out to restore normal physiological function. Therefore, it is important to know both the variations and the normal anatomy of papillary muscles.

METHODS:

This study was carried out on 116 human cadaveric hearts. The left ventricles were opened along the left border in order to view the papillary muscles. The number, shape, position and pattern of the papillary muscles were observed.

RESULTS:

In this series, the papillary muscles were mostly found in groups instead of in twos, as is described in standard textbooks. Four different shapes of papillary muscles were identified - conical, broad-apexed, pyramidal and fan-shaped. We also discovered various patterns of papillary muscles.

CONCLUSION:

No two mitral valve complexes have the same architectural arrangement. Each case seems to be unique. Therefore, it is important for scientists worldwide to study the variations in the mitral valve complex in order to ascertain the reason behind each specific architectural arrangement. This will enable cardiothoracic surgeons to tailor the surgical procedures according to the individual papillary muscle pattern.

• Authors: Sandhya Arvind Gunnal, Rajendra Namdeo Wabale, Mujeebuddin Samsamuddin Farooqui
• Journal: Singapore medical journal (Singapore Med J) Vol. 54 Issue 1 Pg. 44-8 (Jan 2013) ISSN: 2737-5935 [Electronic] India
• PMID: 23338917 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Anatomy (methods)
• Cadaver
• Chordae Tendineae (anatomy & histology)
• Heart (anatomy & histology)
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Mitral Valve (pathology)
• Mitral Valve Insufficiency (physiopathology)
• Models, Anatomic
• Papillary Muscles (pathology)
• Thoracic Surgery (methods)