Final answer:
The characteristic of false tendons in the cardiac ventricles that does not apply is D. Can check flow obstruction because they do not serve a function in regulating blood flow or valve function, unlike the chordae tendineae.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristics of false tendons in the cardiac ventricles can include all but which of the following?
- A. Only extends from the septum to the inferior wall
- B. Can be considered coincidental findings
- C. Can appear similar to chord
- D. Can check flow obstruction
The correct answer to this question is D. False tendons in the cardiac ventricles do not check flow obstruction. Instead, they are generally considered to be coincidental findings during an echocardiogram or other heart examinations. They can appear similar to chordae tendineae, but unlike chordae tendineae which connect the flaps of the atrioventricular valves to the papillary muscles, false tendons do not serve a function in regulating blood flow or supporting valve function. They can extend from various points within the heart, not exclusively from the septum to the inferior wall.
Chordae tendineae are string-like extensions of tough connective tissue that extend from the flaps of the atrioventricular valves to the papillary muscles, unlike false tendons. The presence of chordae tendineae is more critical for the atrioventricular valves because they prevent prolapse of these valves into the atria when the ventricles contract.