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Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Whole-Mount Immunofluorescence Staining, Confocal Imaging and 3D Reconstruction of the Sinoatrial and Atrioventricular Node in the Mouse
Published on: December 22, 2020
A secret pathway of the sinus node artery
Insights
A rare coronary artery variation, where the left circumflex (LCX) and sinus node (SN) arteries originate together from the left main (LM) coronary artery, was identified. This anatomical finding is crucial for cardiac surgeons and interventional cardiologists.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Anatomy
- Interventional Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
Background:
- A previously unreported anatomical variation of coronary artery origin was identified.
- This case involved the common origin of the left circumflex (LCX) and sinus node (SN) arteries from the left main (LM) coronary artery.
Discussion:
- While this anatomical variation is asymptomatic, its recognition is critical.
- Accurate anatomical knowledge is essential for procedural planning and patient safety in cardiac interventions.
Key Insights:
- Demonstration of a rare common origin for the LCX and SN arteries from the LM coronary artery.
- Angiographic findings highlight the importance of detailed coronary anatomy assessment.
Outlook:
- Further investigation into the prevalence of this variation may refine anatomical atlases.
- Enhanced awareness among interventional cardiologists and surgeons can improve procedural outcomes.
Abstract:
Anatomic and postmortem angiographic findings of a previously unreported case of common origin of the left circumflex (LCX) and the sinus node (SN) arteries, from the left main (LM) coronary artery were demonstrated. Knowledge of this anatomical variation, although it does not give rise to symptoms, is essential for anatomist and mainly for the interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons for their procedures.
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