Question

multiple choice question
which supports the valves and openings of the great vessels of the heart?

fibrous skeleton
chordae tendineae
papillary muscles
pericardium

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Fibrous skeleton: It is the connective tissue structure that supports the heart valves and the openings of the great vessels (like aorta, vena cavae) by providing a firm framework.
• Chordae tendineae: These are cord - like structures that connect the atrioventricular valve leaflets to the papillary muscles, mainly preventing valve prolapse during ventricular contraction, not supporting valves and great vessel openings.
• Papillary muscles: They attach to the chordae tendineae and contract to prevent valve inversion, not the main support for valves and great vessel openings.
• Pericardium: It is the sac around the heart, providing protection and lubrication, not supporting valves or great vessel openings.

So, the fibrous skeleton is the structure that supports the valves and openings of the great vessels of the heart.

Answer:

A. Fibrous skeleton