epicardium

The epicardium is a thin outer layer of the HEART WALL that forms the VISCERAL PERICARDIUM, the inner layer of the SEROUS PERICARDIUM. It is composed primarily of MESOTHELIUM and underlying CONNECTIVE TISSUE containing BLOOD VESSELS, LYMPHATIC VESSELS, NERVES, and ADIPOSE TISSUE. The epicardium covers the external surface of the MYOCARDIUM and provides a smooth protective surface that reduces friction during CARDIAC CONTRACTION. It also supports the passage of CORONARY ARTERIES and CORONARY VEINS that supply and drain the heart muscle.

The epicardium is the thin outer protective layer of the heart that covers its surface and helps the heart move smoothly while beating.

• Epicardium is the outermost layer of the heart wall. • It is also called the visceral layer of the pericardium. • It covers and protects the surface of the heart. • It lies outside the myocardium, the muscular layer of the heart. • It contains blood vessels, nerves, connective tissue, and fat tissue. • It helps reduce friction as the heart beats inside the chest. • Important coronary blood vessels travel through the epicardial layer. • The three layers of the heart wall are: - Epicardium: outer protective layer. - Myocardium: middle muscular layer responsible for contraction. - Endocardium: inner lining of the heart chambers.