Lateral Depiction of the Coronary Arteries (Sagittal Thoracic Section)

Description

Presented as a lateral sagittal section through the male thorax, the heart sits anterior to the vertebral column and medial to the ipsilateral lung, with the coronary arteries traced over the epicardial surface. The right coronary artery courses in the right atrioventricular groove toward the acute margin, while the left main coronary artery divides into the anterior interventricular branch (left anterior descending) descending toward the apex and the circumflex artery sweeping posteriorly in the left atrioventricular groove. Small arteriolar branches perforate the myocardium, and proximal segments relate closely to the aortic root and pulmonary trunk at the base of the heart. Color convention separates arteries from accompanying coronary veins that converge toward the coronary sinus. A sagittal lateral cut clarifies depth relationships that are hard to teach in standard anterior views, including how the anterior interventricular artery rides the anterior surface while the circumflex disappears into the posterior atrioventricular sulcus. That matters in coronary angiography and bypass planning, where dominance patterns and obtuse versus acute marginal branches influence graft selection and anticipated ischemic territories. It also frames typical clinical correlations: proximal LAD disease threatens the anterior wall and septum, and right coronary occlusion often involves the inferior wall and may compromise AV nodal supply. Cardiology and gross anatomy courses can use this plate to connect surface coronary anatomy to sectional thoracic anatomy, tying the heart’s position to adjacent lung, diaphragm, and liver. It also fits atlases, cath lab teaching files, and perioperative education for CABG or valve surgery where coronary ostia and proximal courses guide safe cannulation and dissection. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.