Electrical conduction of the heart
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Electrical conduction of the heart
Electrical conduction of the heart. Artwork showing the impulse conduction system (yellow) of the human heart (left) and an electrocardiogram (ECG) of a normal heart rate (right). The sinoatrial (SA) node (yellow, upper left) consists of self-excitatory muscle cells that contract rhythmically at around 70 beats per minute. Following each contraction, an impulse spreads through the hearts upper chambers (atria, upper frame) to the atrioventricular (AV) node (yellow, centre left). Contraction of the atria causes blood to move into the lower chambers (ventricles, lower frame). This contraction is seen as the P wave on the ECG. The AV node transmits the impulse to the ventricles, via the bundle of His. The ventricles contract, sending blood to the lungs and to the rest of the body. The ventricular contraction is seen as the QRS wave complex on the ECG. The T wave is the relaxation of the ventricles
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6331059
© PETER GARDINER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cardiac Cardiology Circulatory Conducting Contraction Electrocardiogram Electrocardiograph Electrocardiography Heart Beat Heart Rate Impulse Measuring Muscular Physiological Physiology Pump Signal Sinoatrial Node System Trace Circulation
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork captures the intricate electrical conduction system of the human heart alongside an electrocardiogram (ECG) displaying a normal heart rate. The yellow impulse conduction system is beautifully illustrated on the left, showcasing the various nodes and pathways that regulate the rhythmic contractions of our most vital organ. At the core of this remarkable process lies the sinoatrial (SA) node, depicted in yellow at the upper left corner. Comprised of self-excitable muscle cells, this node contracts rhythmically at approximately 70 beats per minute, setting the pace for our heartbeat. Following each contraction, an electric impulse spreads through the atria (upper frame), causing them to contract and propel blood into their respective ventricles (lower frame). The atrioventricular (AV) node plays a crucial role in transmitting these impulses from atria to ventricles via its connection with bundle of His. As a result, ventricles contract forcefully, propelling oxygen-rich blood to both lungs and throughout our entire body. This dynamic process is visually represented by distinct waves on an ECG: P wave signifies atrial contraction while QRS complex represents ventricular contraction. Finally, T wave indicates relaxation phase before another cycle begins. Through this stunning illustration and accompanying ECG trace, we gain insight into how electrical signals govern our cardiac function – a testament to nature's impeccable design. This artwork serves as a reminder of our heart's incredible ability to sustain life and underscores its significance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
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