Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which muscle type is not striated?

1. Skeletal

2. Cardiac

3. Visceral

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Visceral

The correct answer highlights that visceral muscle, also known as smooth muscle, is not striated. This type of muscle is found in various internal organs, including the walls of blood vessels, the digestive tract, and the respiratory system. Unlike skeletal and cardiac muscles, which exhibit a striated appearance due to the organized arrangement of myofilaments, visceral muscle fibers are non-striated. This structural characteristic allows for more flexible contraction and is essential for the involuntary movements necessary for bodily functions such as digestion and blood flow regulation. Skeletal muscles, which are striated, are under voluntary control, enabling movements like walking and lifting. Cardiac muscle, also striated, makes up the myocardium of the heart and is responsible for involuntary contractions that pump blood throughout the body. Both of these types are organized differently compared to visceral muscle, resulting in their striated appearance. Thus, understanding the unique characteristics of muscle types is crucial for differentiating their roles and functions within the body.