Ace the CVS Pharmacy Exam 2025 - Your Prescription for Success!

Question: 1 / 400

What is the primary purpose of papillary muscles in the heart?

To contract the valves

To open the AV valves

To prevent backflow into the atria during ventricular systole

The primary purpose of papillary muscles in the heart is to prevent backflow into the atria during ventricular systole. These muscles are attached to the atrioventricular (AV) valves by chordae tendineae, which are string-like structures. When the ventricles contract during systole, the papillary muscles also contract, pulling on the chordae tendineae. This action keeps the AV valves (the tricuspid and mitral valves) closed, preventing the backflow of blood into the atria.

Without the function of the papillary muscles, the AV valves could potentially invert under the pressure created during ventricular contraction, leading to regurgitation of blood back into the atria. Thus, their role is crucial in maintaining the unidirectional flow of blood through the heart, ensuring efficient circulation.

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To pump blood

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