Vessel
Great cardiac vein
A major venous route from the anterior heart to the coronary sinus
High-yield
The great cardiac vein follows two grooves: anterior interventricular, then left atrioventricular.
Overview
The anterior interventricular venous channel ascends from the apical region and turns into the left AV groove as the great cardiac vein. It then reaches the coronary sinus. Its crossings with coronary arteries and the extent of its drainage vary.
Reference facts
- Origin
- The anterior interventricular venous network near the cardiac apex
- Course
- Up the anterior interventricular groove, then around the left AV groove
- Branches
- Anterior ventricular, marginal and atrial tributaries, with variable connections
- Supplies
- Drains myocardial regions of the anterior and lateral heart; its territory is not identical to the entire left coronary territory
- Drains to
- Usually continues into the coronary sinus near the oblique left atrial vein
Clinical correlation
The great cardiac vein and its tributaries are relevant to cardiac pacing and arrhythmia procedures. Their individual course and arterial relationships require assessment rather than assumption.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the great cardiac vein originate?
The anterior interventricular venous network near the cardiac apex.
What territory does the great cardiac vein serve?
Drains myocardial regions of the anterior and lateral heart; its territory is not identical to the entire left coronary territory.
Where does the great cardiac vein drain to?
Usually continues into the coronary sinus near the oblique left atrial vein.
What are the branches of the great cardiac vein?
Anterior ventricular, marginal and atrial tributaries, with variable connections.