Posterior interventricular artery

Posterior Interventricular Artery

Posterior interventricular artery visible at center.

The Posterior Interventricular Artery (PIA), also known as the posterior descending artery (PDA), is an artery running in the posterior interventricular sulcus to the apex of the heart. It supplies the posterior 1/3 of the interventricular septum. The PIA is typically a branch of the right coronary artery (RCA) in 70% of cases, and from the circumflex artery (a branch of the left coronary artery) in the remaining 30% of individuals.

Structure

The PIA originates from the RCA or the circumflex artery, and descends along the posterior part of the interventricular septum. It gives off septal branches and ventricular branches. The septal branches supply the posterior part of the interventricular septum, and the ventricular branches supply the posterior wall of the left ventricle and the right ventricle.

Function

The PIA supplies blood to the posterior part of the interventricular septum, the posterior part of the left ventricle, and a small part of the right ventricle. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the oxygen supply to these areas of the heart.

Clinical significance

Blockage of the PIA can lead to a myocardial infarction (heart attack), specifically an inferior wall MI if the PIA is a branch of the RCA, or a posterior wall MI if the PIA is a branch of the circumflex artery.

See also

• Anterior interventricular artery
• Coronary circulation
• Coronary arteries