All of the following are true about fetal circulation EXCEPT?
High-Yield Explanation
Components of Fetal circulation: - placenta --> source of oxygen As placenta provides gas exchange for fetus, lungs are collapsed & filled with fluid exhibiting high pulmonary vascular resistance Thus, very little blood flows to lungs - Ductus venosus --> provide low resistance bypass for umbilical venous blood to reach Inferior Vena Cava - Ductus aeriosus --> Allow right ventricular blood to reach descending aoa, since lungs are non-functioning - Foramen ovale --> Enables oxygenated blood to reach left atrium & ventricles for distribution to hea & brain. - Umbilical vein--> carry oxygenated blood from placenta towards fetus - umbilical aeries --> carry deoxygenated blood from fetus to placenta Fetal circulation: