LMCA
Also written as: LMCA — Left Main Coronary Artery
Left main coronary artery, the short vessel that bifurcates into the LAD and circumflex arteries.
Full Definition
The left main coronary artery (LMCA) is the initial segment of the left coronary system, originating from the left sinus of Valsalva and typically measuring 10-15mm in length before bifurcating into the left anterior descending and circumflex arteries. LMCA stenosis is considered particularly high-risk due to the large amount of myocardium it supplies, often referred to as 'widow maker' lesions. Interventional procedures involving the left main require careful consideration of the bifurcation anatomy and often necessitate specialized techniques. Treatment decisions between percutaneous intervention and surgical revascularization are guided by anatomical complexity scores and patient risk factors.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use in patient-facing documents; considered standard abbreviation in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient presented with critical LMCA stenosis requiring urgent revascularization." — Case presentation
- "LMCA intervention was performed using a two-stent technique due to the complex bifurcation anatomy." — Procedural report