The full form of AV node is atrioventricular node.
The atrioventricular (AV) node is a crucial component of the heart's electrical conduction system. Located in the central part of the heart between the atria (the upper chambers) and the ventricles (the lower chambers), the AV node plays a vital role in ensuring coordinated heart contractions.
Here's a breakdown of its function:
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Delaying the Electrical Signal: After the sinoatrial (SA) node (the heart's natural pacemaker) initiates an electrical impulse, the AV node briefly delays this impulse. This delay allows the atria to contract and fully empty their contents into the ventricles before the ventricles contract.
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Relaying the Electrical Signal: Once the delay is complete, the AV node transmits the electrical signal to the bundle of His, specialized fibers that conduct the impulse down the interventricular septum (the wall separating the ventricles).
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Backup Pacemaker: If the SA node fails, the AV node can act as a backup pacemaker, although at a slower rate (typically 40-60 beats per minute). This is slower than the SA node's inherent rate of 60-100 beats per minute.
Dysfunction of the AV node can lead to various heart rhythm abnormalities, such as heart block, where the electrical signal is partially or completely blocked from reaching the ventricles. This can result in a slower heart rate and potentially serious cardiovascular problems.
