The length and topographical location of septal papillary muscles in adult human hearts
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the relative length and anatomical position of septal papillary muscles, including the papillary muscle of the conus arteriosus (MCA) and other septal papillary muscles (MPS), as these may have significant clinical implications. Material and methods: We examined 111 formalin-fixed human hearts from individuals aged 49-97 years, with no pathological lesions or malformations. The right ventricle was opened with a V-shaped incision, and measurements were taken along the posterior angle from the annulus fibrosus to the apex. The ventricle height was divided into ten levels for topographical assessment. Relative muscle lengths were calculated as percentages of ventricular height. Results: MCA was present in all specimens, predominantly as a poorly developed structure (67.57% with relative length 1-5%). MPS were absent in 28 hearts, with only tendinous cords present. When developed, MPS showed similar proportions to MCA. The latter was primarily located at the third level from the annulus fibrosus, while MPS and associated cords showed greater topographical variability (levels 1-7). Conclusions: Septal papillary muscles demonstrate considerable morphological and topographical variability. The predominance of poorly developed muscles and the presence of tendinous cords alone suggest evolutionary variations in septal muscular organization. These findings provide important anatomical insights for cardiac interventions.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Kosiński A, Kaczyńska A, Piwko G, Jeżyk D, Słonimska P, Zajączkowska K, Zawrzykraj M, Zajączkowski M. The length and topographical location of septal papillary muscles in adult human hearts. Eur J Transl Clin Med. 2025;8(2):25-34. https://doi.org/10.31373/ejtcm/215153