Small cardiac vein

Small Cardiac Vein

The small cardiac vein runs in the coronary sulcus between the right atrium and right ventricle. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The Small Cardiac Vein is a blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the heart muscle (myocardium) back to the heart. It is part of the coronary circulation system, which supplies the heart with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function.

Anatomy

The small cardiac vein, also known as the right coronary vein, runs in the coronary sulcus, a groove that marks the external boundary between the right atrium and the right ventricle of the heart. It begins at the lower part of the posterior surface of the heart and ends in the coronary sinus, a large vein that collects blood from the myocardium and delivers it to the right atrium.

Function

The primary function of the small cardiac vein is to drain deoxygenated blood from the myocardium of the right atrium and right ventricle. This blood is then returned to the systemic circulation via the coronary sinus and the right atrium.

Clinical Significance

Understanding the anatomy and function of the small cardiac vein is crucial in several medical procedures, including coronary angiography and coronary artery bypass grafting. Abnormalities or blockages in this vein can lead to serious heart conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack).

See Also

• Coronary circulation
• Coronary sinus
• Right atrium
• Right ventricle