What are the histological features of heart valves?
Heart valves are composed of three main layers:
Fibrosa: The dense connective tissue core that provides structural support. Spongiosa: A layer of loose connective tissue that acts as a shock absorber. Ventricularis: A layer of dense connective tissue covered by endothelial cells, facing the ventricular side of the valve.
These layers work together to ensure unidirectional blood flow and prevent backflow during the cardiac cycle.
