Posterolateral artery

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Posterolateral artery

Illustration of the Posterolateral artery from Gray's Anatomy

The Posterolateral artery is a small branch of the coronary arteries that supplies blood to the heart. It is often considered a branch of the right coronary artery (RCA), but its origin can vary.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Posterolateral artery typically arises from the RCA, but in some individuals, it may originate from the circumflex artery (LCX). It travels in the atrioventricular groove, supplying the myocardium of the ventricles and the atria.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Blockage of the Posterolateral artery can lead to a myocardial infarction, specifically a posterior or lateral heart attack. This can cause damage to the left ventricle, leading to heart failure or arrhythmias.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD