Posted by Dr. Lazarus on August 21, 2011 at 12:17:44:
3.The adult heart rests inside a sac known as the pericardium which consists of both a fibrous and serosal component. Describe the developmental origins of these tissues.
4.In the adult, the heart rests in the middle mediastinum in an oblique position. Describe the adult heart position (i.e. specifically the location of the atria and ventricles) within the adult thoracic cavity. Describe the steps of heart looping during development that lead to this oblique position.
5.Within the adult right atria, a fossa ovalis is visible. This developmental remnant is essential for proper fetal circulation but becomes occluded upon the birth and first breath of a newborn. Describe the steps involved with septation of the atria. Include an explanation of the fetal circulation of through the atria and post-natal events that lead to closure of the foramen ovale.