A structure in a blood vessel or the heart which ensures blood flows only one way. They are constructed of single or multiple flaps which swing open to allow blood to flow forwards and swing shut to prevent back flow. The valve flaps are referred to as ‘leaflets’ or ‘cusps’.
The most common fatty substance found in the blood; normally stored as an energy source in fat tissue. High triglyceride levels often accompany other risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity.
The valve at the junction of the right atrium with the right ventricle, which controls flow of blood into the ventricle before each contraction, and prevents backflow