Question

what is the name of the conical extensions of the ventricular myocardium that prevent the valves from opening into the atria?
a chordae tendinae
b interventricular septum
c interatrial septum
d papillary muscles

Explanation:

• Chordae tendinae: These are fibrous cords that connect the papillary muscles to the heart valves, but they are not conical extensions of the ventricular myocardium.
• Interventricular septum: This is a wall that separates the left and right ventricles, not related to preventing valve opening into the atria.
• Interatrial septum: This is a wall that separates the left and right atria, not relevant to the question.
• Papillary muscles: These are conical extensions of the ventricular myocardium. When the ventricles contract, the papillary muscles contract as well. This contraction pulls on the chordae tendinae, which in turn prevent the atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid valves) from inverting (opening into the atria).

Answer:

D. Papillary muscles