commissure
Junction point between adjacent valve leaflets or cusps, critical anatomical landmark in valve repair and replacement procedures.
Full Definition
A commissure is the anatomical junction or meeting point between adjacent valve leaflets or cusps in cardiac valves, particularly important in mitral and aortic valve anatomy. These structures serve as critical landmarks during valve repair procedures, as commissural integrity is essential for proper valve function and competency. Commissural pathology, such as fusion or rupture, can significantly impact valve performance and may require specific surgical techniques including commissurotomy or commissural reconstruction. Understanding commissural anatomy is fundamental to successful valve repair procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which commissure (anterior, posterior) when documenting valve procedures.
In Context
- "The posterior commissure was carefully preserved during the mitral valve repair to maintain leaflet coaptation." — Valve repair operative note
- "Commissural fusion was addressed with precise incisions to restore normal valve opening dynamics." — Valve surgery technique description