Outflow Tract
The anatomical region where blood exits a cardiac ventricle, including the valve and immediately adjacent structures.
Full Definition
The outflow tract refers to the specific anatomical region through which blood exits each cardiac ventricle, encompassing the semilunar valve, supporting structures, and immediately adjacent great vessel. The right ventricular outflow tract includes the pulmonary valve and main pulmonary artery, while the left ventricular outflow tract comprises the aortic valve and ascending aorta. Outflow tract abnormalities are common in congenital heart disease, including stenosis, atresia, or malalignment. These structures are critical in determining surgical approaches and long-term outcomes. Editorial teams should note the separation as two words and avoid confusion with 'tract' in other anatomical contexts.
Usage
Usage note: Keep as two words; specify right or left ventricular when context requires clarification.
In Context
- "Echocardiography demonstrated severe right ventricular outflow tract obstruction." — Echocardiography report
- "Surgical reconstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract was successfully completed." — Operative summary