circumflex artery
One of the major coronary arteries that supplies blood to the lateral and posterior walls of the left ventricle.
Full Definition
The left circumflex artery (LCX or LCx) is a major branch of the left main coronary artery that wraps around the left side of the heart in the atrioventricular groove. It typically supplies the lateral wall of the left ventricle and, in right-dominant systems, may give rise to the posterior descending artery. In cardiac imaging reports, circumflex artery territories are identified by specific wall segments on echocardiography, characteristic perfusion patterns on nuclear imaging, and anatomical distribution on cardiac catheterization. Understanding coronary anatomy is essential for interpreting imaging findings and correlating with clinical symptoms.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as LCX or LCx. Do not confuse with circumflex humeral artery or other anatomical circumflex vessels.
In Context
- "Significant stenosis was noted in the proximal circumflex artery." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "The circumflex territory showed normal perfusion on SPECT imaging." — Nuclear cardiology report