CVS Practice Test

The correct answer includes the names of the papillary muscles found specifically in the right ventricle. The right ventricle possesses three papillary muscles: the anterior papillary muscle, the posterior papillary muscle, and the septal papillary muscle. These muscles attach to the chordae tendineae, which connect to the tricuspid valve, playing a crucial role in the proper functioning of this heart valve during the cardiac cycle. The anterior muscle is typically the largest and most prominent of the three and is involved in preventing the tricuspid valve from prolapsing into the right atrium during ventricular contraction. The posterior muscle assists in this function as well, while the septal muscle provides additional support along the interventricular septum. Understanding these structures is vital because they are essential for proper cardiac mechanics and effective blood flow through the heart.