What does the right heart do?

The right heart consists of the right atrium and right ventricle, and it plays a crucial role in the circulation of deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation. Here's an overview of what the right heart does:

1. Receives Deoxygenated Blood: The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body through two large veins called the superior vena cava and the inferior vena cava. The superior vena cava collects deoxygenated blood from the upper body, while the inferior vena cava collects deoxygenated blood from the lower body.

2. Pumps Blood to the Lungs: The right ventricle pumps the deoxygenated blood from the right atrium into the pulmonary arteries. There are two pulmonary arteries, one leading to each lung. The pulmonary arteries carry the deoxygenated blood to the lungs for gas exchange.

3. Tricuspid Valve: Between the right atrium and right ventricle lies the tricuspid valve. This valve prevents the backflow of blood into the right atrium when the right ventricle contracts.

4. Pulmonary Valve: The pulmonary valve is located at the opening of the pulmonary arteries. It prevents the backflow of blood into the right ventricle when the ventricles relax.

5. Low-Pressure System: The right heart operates at lower pressures compared to the left heart. This is because the resistance in the pulmonary circulation is much lower compared to the systemic circulation.

6. Myocardial Structure: The walls of the right ventricle are thinner than those of the left ventricle. This is due to the lower pressure demands placed on the right heart.

In summary, the right heart receives deoxygenated blood from the body, pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation, and ensures that the blood flows in the correct direction through the heart valves.