Pericardium Function: What is the function of the pericardium? This is a sac that surrounds the heart and functions as a lubrication system. The roots of the major arteries and veins lead to this sac. This sac is the way for the heart to stay attached in the chest and doesn’t grow large under pressure.

The additional function of the pericardium is to offer lubrication of the muscle of the heart so it may pump with no constraint. In order to do this, the pericardium is really developed into 3 layers. The layer nearest the muscle of the heart is called the “parietal pericardium”. Its surface inside is extremely slick allowing for the heart to slide easily.

There is as well a cover of pericardial fluid in the middle of the parietal layer and the second layer, referred to as the visceral or epicardium pericardium. The epicardium is a very hard outer seal and holds the pericardial fluid that acts as a shock-absorber. The outmost layer of the pericardium is the tough pericardium. This is the strongest layer, with the function of anchoring the heart muscle as well as the pericardial sac to the inter walls to the chest. This fibrous pericardium is the first line of defense against any blow to the chest that is severe.