Ventricular False Tendons in Human Hearts, an Autopsy Study of the Incidence, Morphology, Histology and Distribution in Basrah City

Abstract

The left ventricular false tendons (LVFTs ) are fibrous or fibromuscular bands crossing the left ventricle in human hearts ,they arise mainly from the ventricular septum to the free wall or to a papillary muscle .They are considered as normal anatomical variant with different numbers, location and type. LVFTs had been associated with many clinical studies and discussions regarding their function . Literatures were reviewed and their incidence ,morphology , histology and clinical correlation were discussed .This study was intended to evaluate the existence LVFTs in Basrah city , and to compare the findings with other data verified in literatures. A prospective autopsy study of the prevalence and morphology of LVFTs in 215 cadaveric human hearts was performed to estimate the number ,types and location .of these bands .10 out of 215 samples were undergo routine histopathological processing to obtain 4 micrometer thickness slides stained with hematoxylin and eosin and examined for histological characteristics . LVFTs of varying number, types and different attachment were recorded in 62 ( 28.8% ) of 215 adult human cadaveric hearts studied. A complete morphologic assessments were done. No significant differences was found regarding age or gender. , Majority of LVFTs are single , commonly between the ventricular septum and papillary muscle .Fibrous and fibro muscular type is predominant . In our community false tendons are frequent anatomic variants of normal human LV which may be identified at routine examination and should not be mistaken as pathologic structures such as flail chordae tendineae or thrombi, further radiological and clinical studies are suggested to ensure their role and function