Epicardial coronary artery
Pronunciation: ep-ih-KAR-dee-al KOR-oh-nar-ee AR-ter-ee
Large coronary vessels that course over the heart surface before penetrating into the myocardium to supply cardiac muscle.
Full Definition
Epicardial coronary arteries are the major coronary vessels that traverse the epicardial surface of the heart, including the left main, left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries along with their primary branches. These vessels are located within the epicardial fat and groove systems on the heart surface before giving rise to penetrating branches that supply the myocardium. Pathologically, epicardial coronary arteries are the primary sites of atherosclerotic plaque formation and acute coronary syndromes. Their superficial location makes them accessible for surgical intervention and allows for direct visualization during cardiac procedures. The term distinguishes these surface vessels from smaller intramyocardial arteries and helps specify the location of coronary pathology in clinical and pathological reports.
Usage
Usage note: Use to distinguish from intramyocardial or intramural coronary vessels. Specify vessel name when possible.
In Context
- "Severe atherosclerotic narrowing was present in all three epicardial coronary arteries." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "The epicardial coronary artery showed 90% stenosis with recent thrombotic occlusion." — Autopsy cardiovascular findings