Vessel
Sinoatrial nodal artery
A variable coronary route to the sinus-node region
High-yield
The sinus nodal artery's origin cannot be inferred reliably from coronary dominance alone.
Overview
The sinus nodal artery most often comes from the right coronary or circumflex artery. Its route follows its origin: it may cross atrial surfaces and approach the superior caval junction from in front, behind or around it. More than one supplying vessel is possible.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Most commonly the RCA or circumflex, occasionally with dual or other origins
- Course
- A variable atrial course to the superior caval–right atrial junction
- Branches
- Small atrial branches whose pattern depends on the parent vessel and route
- Supplies
- Sinus node and adjacent atrial myocardium
- Drains to
- Atrial venous channels return blood to the coronary sinus or directly to atrial chambers
Clinical correlation
Ischemia or procedural injury of this vessel can disrupt sinus-node activity. Its variable relationship to atrial and caval structures matters in planning interventions nearby.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the sinoatrial nodal artery originate?
The sinoatrial nodal artery arises from the most commonly the RCA or circumflex, occasionally with dual or other origins.
What does the sinoatrial nodal artery supply?
The sinoatrial nodal artery supplies the sinus node and adjacent atrial myocardium.
Where does the sinoatrial nodal artery drain to?
The sinoatrial nodal artery drains to the atrial venous channels return blood to the coronary sinus or directly to atrial chambers.
What are the branches of the sinoatrial nodal artery?
Branches of the sinoatrial nodal artery include the small atrial branches whose pattern depends on the parent vessel and route.