What type of muscle makes up the myocardium?

The myocardium is the muscular layer of the heart wall and is primarily composed of cardiac muscle. This specialized muscle type is unique to the heart and is responsible for the heart's ability to contract and pump blood effectively throughout the body. Cardiac muscle fibers are interconnected through intercalated discs, which facilitate synchronized contractions essential for heart function.

Skeletal muscle, while also striated, is under voluntary control and is not found in the heart. Smooth muscle, on the other hand, is found in the walls of various hollow organs, such as the intestines and blood vessels, and is not responsible for the heartbeat. Striated muscle refers to muscles that have a banded appearance, which includes both skeletal and cardiac muscle. However, referring to the myocardium specifically as cardiac muscle accurately identifies its unique properties and functions.