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Do the right and left sides of the heart have different functions?

CTSurgeryPatients.org
CTSurgeryPatients.org
answer
The right and left sides of the heart have different functions. The right side of the heart collects oxygen-poor blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs. The left side of the heart collects oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and pumps it to the body.

The left and right sides of the heart are divided by walls called septums. There is an atrial septum that separates the right and left atriums, and a ventricular septum that separates the right and left ventricles.

This content originally appeared online in "The Patient Guide to Heart, Lung, and Esophageal Surgery" from the Society of Thoracic Surgery.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.