Pectinate muscle Definition
It refers to any of the special intracardiac muscles or prominent atrial myocardium ridges. This physical structure gets its name from the fact that the muscular fibers located in it are arranged like the bristles of a comb.
It is also known by other names like Musculus pectinatus and Músculo pectinate.
Pectinate muscle Location
It is mainly located in the right atrium. It can be found more in the right atrial appendage and less in the left atrium. These muscles may also traverse the wall of the adjacent anterior atrium.
Pectinate muscle Function
The wave-like pattern of fibers of this muscle allows stronger contraction with minimum muscle mass. These muscles restrict and regulate the displacement of cusps of cardiac valves beyond the maximum point of distention.
References:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/pectinate%20muscle
http://drsvenkatesan.wordpress.com/2011/08/28/what-is-the-function-of-pectinate-muscles-of-heart/
http://faculty.ucc.edu/biology-potter/heart.htm
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