Coronary artery

Coronary artery refers to one of the two main arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. These arteries branch off from the aorta near the point where the aorta and the left ventricle meet.

Anatomy

There are two main coronary arteries: the right coronary artery (RCA) and the left coronary artery (LCA). The LCA further divides into the left anterior descending artery (LAD) and the left circumflex artery (LCX). These arteries and their branches supply all parts of the heart muscle with blood.

Function

The main function of the coronary arteries is to supply blood to the heart muscle. They do this by branching off from the aorta and running along the surface of the heart, where they divide into smaller branches. These smaller branches penetrate the heart muscle, supplying it with oxygen and nutrients.

Diseases

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in many developed countries. CAD occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked due to the build-up of atherosclerotic plaques. This can lead to symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and heart attack.

Treatment

Treatment for CAD typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes, surgical procedures. These can include coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or angioplasty.

See also

• Heart
• Aorta
• Left ventricle
• Right coronary artery
• Left coronary artery
• Coronary artery disease
• Angina
• Heart attack
• Coronary artery bypass grafting
• Percutaneous coronary intervention
• Angioplasty

Coronary artery Resources
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