Pericardial cavity
Pericardial Cavity
The Pericardial Cavity (Pronunciation: Per-i-car-dial Cav-i-ty) is a potential space between the parietal pericardium and the visceral pericardium, the two layers of the pericardium. It is part of the mediastinum and is located in the middle mediastinum, between the lungs.
Etymology
The term "Pericardial Cavity" is derived from the Greek words "peri," meaning around, and "kardia," meaning heart. Thus, it refers to the space around the heart.
Function
The Pericardial Cavity is filled with a small amount of pericardial fluid that serves as a lubricant, reducing friction between the heart and the pericardium during the heart's movements. This fluid-filled space allows the heart to move and beat in a virtually friction-free environment.
Related Terms
- Pericardium: The double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the great vessels.
- Parietal pericardium: The outer layer of the pericardium that is in contact with the mediastinum.
- Visceral pericardium: The inner layer of the pericardium that is in direct contact with the heart.
- Pericardial fluid: The serous fluid in the pericardial cavity that reduces friction between the layers of the pericardium.
- Mediastinum: The central compartment of the thoracic cavity that contains the heart, thymus, esophagus, trachea, and large blood vessels.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pericardial cavity
- Wikipedia's article - Pericardial cavity
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