What is the name of the heart muscle?

The heart muscle is known as the myocardium. This layer is responsible for the contraction and pumping action of the heart, allowing it to circulate blood throughout the body. The myocardium is composed of specialized muscle tissue that enables it to respond to electrical impulses, which trigger heartbeats.

The pericardium is a protective sac surrounding the heart, while the epicardium is the outer layer of the heart wall. The endocardium, on the other hand, is the inner lining of the heart chambers. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the crucial role of the myocardium in maintaining effective cardiovascular function.