LCX
Also written as: LCX — Left Circumflex
Left circumflex coronary artery, a major branch of the left coronary system supplying the lateral and posterior walls of the left ventricle.
Full Definition
The left circumflex (LCX) coronary artery is a major branch of the left main coronary artery that travels in the left atrioventricular groove around the lateral aspect of the heart. The LCX typically gives rise to obtuse marginal (OM) branches that supply the lateral wall of the left ventricle. In approximately 10-15% of patients, the LCX is dominant, meaning it gives rise to the posterior descending artery and supplies the inferior wall. LCX lesions can be challenging to detect on ECG, as they may not produce classic changes, earning them the nickname 'silent killers.' Imaging assessment focuses on the proximal LCX, OM branches, and determination of dominance patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Context should clarify whether referring to the vessel itself or dominance pattern.
In Context
- "The LCX showed moderate disease with a 60% stenosis at the origin of the first obtuse marginal branch." — Angiography report
- "In this left-dominant system, the LCX gives rise to the PDA and supplies the inferior territory." — Anatomical assessment