The distribution and structure of the lymphatic system in dog atrioventricular valves.

A morphological study of the lymphatic system in atrioventricular (AV) valves of adult dogs and puppies was carried out using a series of techniques including India ink injection, a hydrogen peroxide technique, light microscopy, and electron microscopy. Lymphatic capillaries were found in all cusps of the AV valves, and were shown to extend delicate networks in the subendocardium of the atrial side of the valves. The extent of their development varied among cusps, being most prominent in the anterior cusp of the mitral valve. Marked differences were noted in the intravalvar distribution between lymphatic capillaries and blood microvessels. The ultrastructures of the lymphatic capillaries in the AV valves were also demonstrated.