Left circumflex coronary artery

Left Circumflex Coronary Artery

Diagram of the coronary arteries, with the left circumflex artery (LCX) labeled at the top.

The Left Circumflex Coronary Artery (LCX) is one of the main coronary arteries that supplies blood to the heart muscle. It branches off from the left main coronary artery and wraps around the left side of the heart, supplying blood to the left atrium and the posterior and lateral walls of the left ventricle.

Anatomy

The LCX originates from the aortic sinus, a dilation of the aorta just above the aortic valve. It courses posteriorly and to the left, following the atrioventricular groove, and gives off several branches along its course. These branches include the obtuse marginal branches and the posterior interventricular artery in some individuals.

Clinical significance

Blockage of the LCX can lead to a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. This can result in damage to the left atrium and the posterior and lateral walls of the left ventricle, potentially leading to heart failure.

See also

• Coronary circulation
• Heart
• Coronary artery disease