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Multiple Choice
Which artery travels under the left auricle and then divides into the circumflex and anterior interventricular branches?
A
Left coronary artery
B
Right coronary artery
C
Aorta
D
Pulmonary artery
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the anatomical location described in the problem. The left auricle is part of the left atrium of the heart, which is located on the superior aspect of the heart.
Step 2: Understand the branching pattern of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries are responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. The left coronary artery typically divides into two main branches: the circumflex artery and the anterior interventricular artery (also known as the left anterior descending artery).
Step 3: Compare the options provided in the question. The left coronary artery is the artery that travels under the left auricle and divides into the circumflex and anterior interventricular branches. The right coronary artery supplies the right side of the heart and does not divide into these branches. The aorta is the main artery leaving the heart but does not directly supply the heart muscle. The pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood to the lungs and is unrelated to coronary circulation.
Step 4: Recall the function and anatomical pathway of the left coronary artery. It originates from the left side of the aorta and travels under the left auricle before dividing into its branches, which supply the left side of the heart and the interventricular septum.
Step 5: Confirm your understanding by visualizing or referencing a diagram of the coronary circulation. This will help reinforce the anatomical relationship between the left coronary artery, its branches, and the left auricle.