Practice Questions

1.State the function of the heart valves

Prevent the backflow of blood.

2. State two consequences if valves become faulty

1.The valve may not open fully, reducing the volume of blood pumped by the heart to either the lungs or body.

2. They leak, allowing blood to flow backwards into either the atria or ventricles.

3. Why should a doctor fit a mechanical valve into a younger patient, rather than a  mechanical valve?

Mechanical valve lasts longer than a biological valve. If the doctor fits a biological valve, it may need to be replaced after 10-15 years.

4. Describe how heart failure is treated.

The failed heart needs to be replaced with either  a human heart (donor organ) or a mechanical heart.