Which valve prevents backflow from the left ventricle to the left atrium?

Prepare for AAMI Anatomy 1. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions with explanations, and detailed study aids. Succeed on your exam!

The valve between the left atrium and left ventricle, the mitral valve, prevents backflow into the atrium. It opens to let blood move from the atrium to the ventricle during relaxation, and it closes as the ventricle contracts, stopping blood from regurgitating back into the atrium. The chordae tendineae and papillary muscles help keep its cusps closed under high ventricular pressure. The other valves are located in different places: the aortic valve lies between the left ventricle and the aorta and stops blood from flowing back into the ventricle, the tricuspid valve sits between the right atrium and right ventricle, and the pulmonary valve lies between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery.