Final answer:
The moderator band, also known as the septomarginal trabecula, is a muscular ridge found in the right ventricle of the heart.
It extends from the base of the anterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum. Its main function is to help coordinate the contraction of the right ventricle and facilitate blood flow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The moderator band, also known as the septomarginal trabecula, is a muscular ridge found in the right ventricle of the heart. It extends from the base of the anterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum.
The main function of the moderator band is to help coordinate the contraction of the right ventricle and facilitate blood flow during ventricular systole.
During ventricular contraction, the moderator band prevents the tricuspid valve from being pushed too far into the ventricular cavity.
It does this by tethering the valve leaflets to the interventricular septum. This helps ensure proper valve function and prevents backflow of blood into the right atrium.
The moderator band should not be confused with the chordae tendineae, which are fibrous structures that connect the papillary muscles to the valve leaflets. While the moderator band is present in some individuals, it may be absent or less prominent in others.