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Chap 8 terms
Anatomy and Physiology Key Terms
Term | Definition |
---|---|
autonomic nervous system (ANS) | Portion of the nervous system that regulates involuntary actions, such as heart rate, digestion, and peristalsis |
leaflet | Thin, flattened structure; term used to describe the leaf-shaped structures that compose a heart valve |
lumen | Tubular space or channel within any organ or structure of the body; space within an artery, vein, intestine, or tube |
regurgitation | Backflow or ejecting of contents through an opening |
sphincter | Circular muscle found in a tubular structure or hollow organ that constricts or dilates to regulate passage of substances through its opening |
vasoconstriction | Narrowing of the lumen of a blood vessel that limits blood flow, usually as a result of diseases, medications, or physiological processes |
vasodilation | Widening of the lumen of a blood vessel caused by the relaxing of the muscles of the vascular walls |
viscosity | State of being sticky or gummy |