Physiological Adaptation Q 23
Which of the following arteries primarily feeds the anterior wall of the heart?
A. Circumflex artery
B. Internal mammary artery
C. Left anterior descending artery
D. Right coronary artery
Correct Answer: C. Left anterior descending artery
The left anterior descending artery is the primary source of blood for the anterior wall of the heart. The left anterior descending artery branches off the left coronary artery and supplies blood to the front of the left side of the heart.
Option A: The circumflex artery supplies the lateral wall. The circumflex artery, fully titled as the circumflex branch of the left coronary artery, is an artery that branches off from the left coronary artery to supply portions of the heart with oxygenated blood. The circumflex artery itself divides into smaller arterial systems.
Option B: The internal mammary artery supplies the mammary. The internal thoracic artery (ITA), previously commonly known as the internal mammary artery (a name still common among surgeons), is an artery that supplies the anterior chest wall and the breasts.
Option D: The right coronary artery supplies the inferior wall of the heart. The right coronary artery supplies blood to the right ventricle and then supplies the underside (inferior wall) and backside (posterior wall) of the left ventricle.