Anterior Semilunar Leaflet of Pulmonary Valve
Valvula semilunaris anterior valvae trunci pulmonalis
Read moreMorphology/Structure
The pulmonary valve has three semilunar leaflets (or cusps). These are the right, left, and anterior (nonadjacent) leaflets located between the outflow tract of the right ventricle and the pulmonary trunk.
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The leaflets are covered with endocardium and are attached to the wall of the infundibulum and supporting structures of the right ventricle. The semilunar valves do not require chordae tendineae or papillary muscles to function as their semilunar attachment to the aortic wall gives them their inherent stability.
Function
The anterior semilunar leaflet is one of three leaflets forming the pulmonary valve, which permits unidirectional flow of oxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the pulmonary trunk, preventing any retrograde flow.
List of Clinical Correlates
- Congenital pulmonary valve stenosis
- Congenital pulmonary valve atresia
- Pulmonic regurgitation
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The leaflets are covered with endocardium and are attached to the wall of the infundibulum and supporting structures of the right ventricle. The semilunar valves do not require chordae tendineae or papillary muscles to function as their semilunar attachment to the aortic wall gives them their inherent stability.
