coronary dominance
The anatomical pattern describing which coronary artery gives rise to the posterior descending artery and posterolateral branches.
Full Definition
Coronary dominance refers to the anatomical variant that determines which major coronary artery supplies the inferior and posterior walls of the left ventricle. In right dominance (85% of patients), the right coronary artery gives rise to the posterior descending artery (PDA) and posterolateral branches. Left dominance (8% of patients) occurs when the left circumflex artery supplies these vessels. Co-dominance (7% of patients) involves shared supply from both systems. Understanding coronary dominance is crucial for interpreting angiographic findings, planning interventions, and predicting the clinical significance of coronary lesions. The dominant system typically also supplies the inferior wall and often the posterior wall of the left ventricle.
Usage
Usage note: Specify type of dominance (right, left, or co-dominant) when describing coronary anatomy.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrates right coronary dominance with the PDA arising from the RCA." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "Left coronary dominance was noted, with the circumflex artery giving rise to the posterior descending artery." — Angiography interpretation