Atrioventricular: Valve

The atrioventricular (AV) valves are the heart's specialized "gatekeepers" that ensure blood flows in only one direction—from the upper chambers (atria) to the lower chambers (ventricles). They are critical for efficient heart function, opening to fill the heart with blood and closing tightly to prevent backflow.

There are two main atrioventricular valves, each separating a specific atrium and ventricle: atrioventricular valve

: Often called the bicuspid valve because it has two main leaflets. It manages the flow between the left atrium and left ventricle, where blood is oxygenated and ready to be pumped to the body. How They Function The atrioventricular (AV) valves are the heart's specialized