Anatomy of the Coronary Arteries: Origin, Course, and Branches

Introduction

The coronary arteries are essential for supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Understanding their anatomy is crucial for cardiology and related medical fields.

Origin of Coronary Arteries

The coronary arteries originate from the ascending aorta, just above the aortic valve. The two main arteries are:

• Right Coronary Artery (RCA) – Arises from the right aortic sinus.
• Left Coronary Artery (LCA) – Arises from the left aortic sinus.

Course and Major Branches

Right Coronary Artery (RCA)

The RCA travels along the right atrioventricular groove, giving rise to several branches, including:

• Sinoatrial (SA) Nodal Artery – Supplies the SA node.
• Acute Marginal Artery – Supplies the right ventricle.
• Posterior Descending Artery (PDA) – Supplies the posterior aspect of the heart.

Left Coronary Artery (LCA)

The LCA bifurcates into:

• Left Anterior Descending Artery (LAD) – Supplies the anterior wall of the heart.
• Left Circumflex Artery (LCx) – Travels around the left atrioventricular groove.

Clinical Significance

Coronary artery disease (CAD), involving the narrowing of coronary arteries, can lead to myocardial infarction (heart attack). Understanding coronary anatomy aids in diagnosis and treatment.