circumflex artery
The left circumflex coronary artery (LCX), one of the major epicardial vessels supplying blood to the lateral and posterior walls of the left ventricle.
Full Definition
The left circumflex coronary artery (LCX) is a major branch of the left main coronary artery that curves around the left side of the heart in the atrioventricular groove. It typically supplies the lateral wall of the left ventricle and may give rise to the posterior descending artery in left-dominant systems. In interventional cardiology documentation, editors must distinguish between circumflex lesions and those in other coronary territories, as this affects procedural planning and risk stratification. The vessel's tortuous course can present technical challenges during catheter-based interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'left circumflex' in full when first mentioned in clinical documents to avoid confusion with other anatomical structures.
In Context
- "The angiogram revealed a 90% stenosis in the proximal circumflex artery requiring immediate intervention." — Catheterization lab report
- "Circumflex territory infarction was evident on the lateral leads of the ECG." — Clinical assessment