Vessel
Circumflex artery
The left coronary route around the atrioventricular groove
High-yield
In left dominance, the circumflex gives rise to the posterior interventricular artery.
Overview
The circumflex branch curves beneath the left atrial appendage into the left AV groove. Atrial and obtuse marginal branches leave it as it courses around the lateral heart. Its posterior extent is especially important in left-dominant circulation.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually the left main coronary artery
- Course
- Around the left atrioventricular groove toward the posterior heart
- Branches
- Obtuse marginal and atrial branches; variable sinus nodal and posterior interventricular branches
- Supplies
- Lateral left ventricular and left atrial regions, with a larger inferior territory in left dominance
- Drains to
- Great cardiac and other left ventricular veins return much of this territory's blood to the coronary sinus
Clinical correlation
Circumflex disease can compromise lateral or posterior left ventricular myocardium. The artery's proximity to the posterior mitral attachment also matters during procedures in that region.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the circumflex artery originate?
Usually the left main coronary artery.
What does the circumflex artery supply?
Lateral left ventricular and left atrial regions, with a larger inferior territory in left dominance.
Where does the circumflex artery drain to?
The circumflex artery drains to the great cardiac and other left ventricular veins return much of this territory's blood to the coronary sinus.
What are the branches of the circumflex artery?
Obtuse marginal and atrial branches; variable sinus nodal and posterior interventricular branches.