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Updated: May 28, 2026

Three-Dimensional Modeling of the Left Atrium and Pulmonary Veins with a Precise Intracardiac Echocardiography Approach
Published on: June 30, 2023
Anatomy of the left atrium for interventional echocardiography
Siew Yen Ho1, Karen P McCarthy, Francesco F Faletra
1Cardiac Morphology Unit, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust and Imperial College London, London SW3 6NP, UK. yen.ho@imperial.ac.uk
Insights
Understanding left atrial anatomy is crucial for transcatheter procedures. This review details its components and spatial relationships to minimize procedural risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Anatomy
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- The left atrium is a critical chamber in cardiac function.
- Transcatheter procedures often involve navigation within or through the left atrium.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the detailed anatomy of the left atrium.
- To highlight the anatomical considerations for interventional transcatheter procedures.
- To emphasize spatial relationships with adjacent structures.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive anatomical review.
- Emphasis on spatial relationships of atrial components.
- Discussion of normal anatomical variations.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of the atrial body, vestibule, appendage, venous component, and atrial septum.
- Explanation of spatial relationships to cardiac and extra-cardiac structures.
- Identification of normal anatomical variations.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of left atrial anatomy is essential for safe and effective interventional transcatheter procedures.
- Knowledge of anatomical variations aids in reducing potential complications.
- This review provides a foundation for procedural planning and execution.
Abstract:
The anatomy of the left atrium is reviewed with relevance to various interventional transcatheter procedures requiring manoeuvres within or passage through the left atrium. The component parts of the atrium--the atrial body with a vestibule, appendage, venous component, and the atrial septum--are described with emphasis on their spatial relationships to neighbouring cardiac and extra-cardiac structures. Normal variations are discussed for a better understanding of the anatomy so as to reduce the risk of potential complications during procedures.
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