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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Coronary artery Resources
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