What is the Thebesian Valve?

The Thebesian valve is a small, often incomplete, valve located in the right atrium of the heart.

Understanding the Thebesian Valve

Based on anatomical descriptions, the Thebesian valve, also known as the valve of the coronary sinus, is a specific anatomical structure within the heart.

Key Characteristics

• Origin: It is identified as a caudal remnant of the embryonic sinoatrial valve [1, 4]. This means it develops from structures present during the early stages of heart formation in the embryo.
• Structure: It typically appears as a semicircular fold of membrane [1, 4]. Its shape and completeness can vary among individuals.
• Location: Found in the right atrium of the heart [1, 4]. Specifically, it is located at the orifice of the coronary sinus [1, 4]. The coronary sinus is a large vein that collects deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle itself and empties it into the right atrium.
• Positioning: Relative to other cardiac structures, it is situated on the posterior, inferior surface of the heart [1, 4] and is medial to the inferior vena cava opening [1, 4]. The inferior vena cava is a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower and middle body into the right atrium.

Location Summary

Here is a brief summary of its location:

While the Thebesian valve exists, it is often incomplete or fenestrated (having openings) and may not always function as a true valve to prevent backflow. Its primary significance is often anatomical, related to the drainage of the coronary sinus into the right atrium.