The anatomy and histology of the atrioventricular conducting system in the hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus) heart

This study examined the atrioventricular conducting system in 4 adult male hedgehogs (Hemiechinus auritus). The histological structure of these components was studied using routine histological methods. The AVN was located at the lower and anterior part of the interatrial septum, near the root of the aorta. It was almost oval and consisted of twisted cells. Internodal pathways in the hedgehog heart were not observed, but there were numerous purkinje-like fibers within the myocardium of the atrium. The AVB was a continuation of the AVN, as a compact structure, extended obliquely through the fibrous ring toward the apex of the interventricular septum, and was composed of many purkinje cells.