What is the primary function of chordae tendineae in the heart?

The primary function of chordae tendineae in the heart is to prevent valve regurgitation. These are tendinous cords that connect the papillary muscles to the atrioventricular valves, specifically the mitral and tricuspid valves. During the contraction of the ventricles, the pressure increase helps to close the valves. The chordae tendineae play a crucial role in this process by keeping the valve leaflets securely anchored and preventing them from prolapsing or opening backward into the atria. This mechanism ensures that blood flows in the correct direction, maintaining effective circulation and proper hemodynamics.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of chordae tendineae. They do not support heart muscle contraction, facilitate blood flow into veins, or control heart rhythm, as those functions are attributed to different structures within the cardiovascular system, such as the myocardial tissue, venous valves, and the conduction system of the heart, respectively.