Morphology/Structure
The left auricle (or atrial appendage) is a pectinated muscular structure which forms a distinctive pouch visible on the exterior of the heart and overlaps the pulmonary trunk.
Related parts of the anatomy
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The left auricle is longer in comparison to the right auricle, but it's narrower, and its pectinate muscles are smaller. Due to the narrower passageway, it is a common location of blood clots.
Function
The left auricle is a remnant of the fetal left atrium. The auricles can relieve high atrial pressure by increasing the atrial capacity at times of stress, acting as overflow vessels.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Left Atrial Appendage
The left atrial appendage is a remnant of the primitive atrium that protrudes from the postero-lateral aspect of the left atrium.
