Abstract
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a general overview of the human cardiovascular system, to serve as a quick reference on its underlying physiological composition. The rapid transport of molecules over long distances between internal cells, the body surface, and/or various specialized tissues organs is the primary function of the cardiovascular system. This body-wide transport system is composed of several major components: blood, the blood vessels, the heart, and the lymphatic system. When functioning normally, this system adequately provides for the wide-ranging activities that a human can accomplish. Failure in any of these components can lead to pathological or even grave consequences. Subsequent chapters will cover, in greater detail, the anatomical, physiological, and pathophysiological features of the cardiovascular system.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Handbook of Cardiac Anatomy, Physiology, and Devices, Third Edition |
| Publisher | Springer International Publishing |
| Pages | 3-12 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9783319194646 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9783319194639 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jan 1 2015 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2015.
Keywords
- Blood
- Blood flow
- Blood vessels
- Cardiovascular system
- Coronary circulation
- Heart
- Lymphatic system
