Vessel
Posterior interventricular artery (PDA)
The descending artery in the inferior interventricular groove
High-yield
In a common codominant pattern, the RCA provides the posterior descending artery while the circumflex provides posterolateral branches; codominance need not mean two origins for one artery.
Overview
Often called the posterior descending artery, this vessel approaches the apex along the diaphragmatic interventricular groove. It usually arises from the right coronary system, or from the circumflex in left dominance. Septal perforators extend from it into the inferior part of the septum.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Right coronary system in right dominance or circumflex system in left dominance, with additional variants
- Course
- Along the posterior interventricular groove from the crux region toward the apex
- Branches
- Posterior septal perforators and adjacent ventricular branches
- Supplies
- Inferior ventricular and posterior septal regions; extent and papillary contribution vary
- Drains to
- The middle cardiac vein accompanies this region and usually returns blood to the coronary sinus
Clinical correlation
Loss of flow can affect inferior septal or ventricular tissue and sometimes papillary support. AV nodal involvement depends on the origin and perfusion of the separate nodal branch.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the posterior interventricular artery (PDA) originate?
The posterior interventricular artery (PDA) arises from the right coronary system in right dominance or circumflex system in left dominance, with additional variants.
What does the posterior interventricular artery (PDA) supply?
Inferior ventricular and posterior septal regions; extent and papillary contribution vary.
Where does blood from the posterior interventricular artery (PDA) go?
The middle cardiac vein accompanies this region and usually returns blood to the coronary sinus.
What are the branches of the posterior interventricular artery (PDA)?
Posterior septal perforators and adjacent ventricular branches.