Which heart valve is also known as the mitral valve?

Study for the Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT). Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question provides hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam!

The mitral valve is correctly identified as the bicuspid valve, which is its other name. This valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart and serves an essential function in ensuring that blood flows in the correct direction during the cardiac cycle. It allows oxygenated blood from the lungs, which is collected in the left atrium, to flow into the left ventricle, from where it is then pumped out to the rest of the body.

The term "bicuspid" refers to the valve's structure, which features two leaflets or flaps, distinguishing it from other heart valves, such as the tricuspid valve, which has three leaflets. Understanding the anatomical structure and function of these valves is crucial for comprehending the overall mechanics of the heart. The aortic semilunar valve and the pulmonary semilunar valve both serve different roles in regulating blood flow from the ventricles into the major arteries leading to the body and lungs, respectively, but they are not related to the mitral or bicuspid valve.

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