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External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Also known as: atrial appendage Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Sep 3, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Also called: atrial appendage (Show more) auricle, in the human heart, one of two small ear-shaped muscular projections extending from the atria, one from the left atrium and one from the right. Their primary function is to act as reservoirs, expanding the capacity of the atria and helping regulate blood flow into the ventricles. Structurally, they are characterized by a wrinkled surface formed by the pectinate muscles. The auricles are clinically important because of their role in certain cardiac disorders. The left auricle (left atrial appendage), for instance, is a frequent site of thrombus (clot) formation in individuals with atrial fibrillation (irregular and rapid beating of ...(100 of 211 words)
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