Abstract
Every day hundreds of new publications address cardiac pathophysiology and dysfunction and the newest, latest, or most advanced treatment strategies. To understand and assimilate this information into clinical practice requires a thorough comprehension of normal cardiac function. This article provides a review of the mechanical, electrical, and metabolic function of a "normal" adult heart. Additionally, it describes how heart failure, myocardial infarction, and valve dysfunction alter the heart's normal physiological state.