atrioventricular (AV) bundle
The atrioventricular (AV) bundle, also known as the Bundle of His, is a collection of heart muscle cells that transmits electrical impulses from the atrioventricular (AV) node to the ventricles. This structure plays a crucial role in coordinating the heart's contractions, ensuring that the upper chambers (atria) contract before the lower chambers (ventricles), allowing for efficient blood flow.
The AV bundle splits into two branches, the right and left bundle branches, which extend into the ventricles. These branches further divide into smaller fibers called Purkinje fibers, which distribute the electrical signal throughout the ventricles, prompting them to contract and pump blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.