How Do You Spell ANNULUS OVALIS?

1. Annulus ovalis is a term derived from Latin, where "annulus" refers to a ring or circular structure, and "ovalis" means oval-shaped. The term is primarily used in the field of anatomy to describe a specific anatomical structure typically found in the heart.

   An annulus ovalis is a small oval-shaped opening located in the septum of the heart, specifically within the wall between the right and left atria. It is also known as the oval foramen or foramen ovale. During fetal development, there exists an opening known as the foramen ovale between the atria, allowing communication between them. This opening serves to bypass the lungs, as the fetus receives oxygenated blood from the mother via the umbilical cord. However, after birth, when the lungs become functional, the foramen ovale usually closes, resulting in separation between the atria.

   The structure that remains after closure is referred to as the annulus ovalis. It is a fibrous, oval-shaped rim that marks the previous location of the foramen ovale. The closure of this opening is facilitated by changes in blood flow and pressure within the heart after birth. The annulus ovalis remains a significant anatomical landmark and can be identified on cardiac imaging studies. Its persistence or patency in some individuals is considered a congenital abnormality and may be associated with certain cardiovascular conditions.

   In summary, the annulus ovalis is an oval-shaped structure within the heart that represents the remnant of the foramen ovale after closure. It serves as a demarcation between the right and left atria and can be of clinical significance in certain cardiovascular conditions.

2. Limbus fossae ovalis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ANNULUS OVALIS

The term "annulus ovalis" is derived from Latin. Here is the breakdown:

- "Annulus" comes from the Latin word "annulus", meaning "ring" or "circle".

- "Ovalis" is a Latin adjective that means "oval" or "egg-shaped".

In anatomy, the term "annulus ovalis" refers to a structure that is shaped like an oval or egg-shaped ring. It specifically refers to a remnant of the fetal heart called the fossa ovalis, which is found in the interatrial septum (the wall between the two atria) of the adult heart.