Morphology/Structure
The aortic fibrous ring consists of dense connective tissue which surrounds the aortic orifice. The anulus is also a problematic description as the valvular anuli are not annular in shape and are often discontinuous. The location of the fibrous rings is often described as the origin of the sinuses, where the semilunar hinges of the valve leaflets attach.
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The aortic ring provides the attachment point for the three semilunar valve leaflets that sit at the junction between the left ventricle and the aorta. The aortic fibrous ring is connected to the right atrioventricular valve by the right fibrous trigone and to the left atrioventricular valve by the left fibrous trigone.
Function
The aortic fibrous ring provides structural support and thus competency to the aortic valve and prevents its over distension. It also provides a direct attachment for cardiac muscle and the membranous interventricular septum. The collagen of the fibrous ring helps to separate electrical activities between the chambers by insulating the propagation of electrical impulses during a heartbeat.
List of Clinical Correlates
- Aortic regurgitation
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Vascular Ring
A vascular ring is defined as an abnormality of the aortic arch, its branches, or remnants that results in encircling of the trachea and esophagus with variable degrees of compression to the trachea and/or esophagus.
