Gross Anatomy of the Human Heart: An Integrated Review With Clinical Correlations

The human heart, a hollow muscular organ situated in the middle mediastinum, functions as the central pump of the circulatory system. Its gross anatomical features—including chambers, surfaces, valves, conduction system, and coronary circulation—form the foundation for understanding cardiovascular physiology and the pathogenesis of major cardiac diseases. A thorough anatomical knowledge of the heart is not only of academic significance but also of immense clinical importance, as it underpins diagnostic interpretation, interventional planning, and surgical procedures. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the gross anatomy of the heart with special emphasis on its clinical correlations. The right and left atria, ventricles, and their associated valves are described along with relevant conditions such as atrial septal defects, tricuspid and mitral valve disease, right and left ventricular hypertrophy, and heart failure. The conduction system, comprising the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, bundle of His, and Purkinje fibers, is explored with reference to arrhythmias and conduction blocks. Coronary circulation is detailed to highlight its relevance in ischemic heart disease, angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction. In addition, the role of applied imaging and modern diagnostic tools such as electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, cardiac catheterisation, CT angiography, and chest radiography is outlined, demonstrating how anatomical knowledge translates into clinical application. By integrating anatomical concepts with contemporary diagnostic and therapeutic advances, this article emphasizes the continuing relevance of cardiac anatomy as the cornerstone of clinical cardiology and surgical practice.