MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The valves prevent the backward flow of blood. Valves are actually flaps (leaflets) that act as one-way inlets for blood coming into a ventricle and one-way outlets for blood leaving a ventricle. Normal valves have 3 flaps (leaflets), except the mitral valve. It only has 2 flaps.

Detailed explanation-2: -The regular opening and closing of valves prevents backflow (blood that is flowing in reverse-also called venous reflux or insufficiency). If backflow occurs, blood can begin to pool in the veins, potentially damaging them.