CORONARY ARTERIES

The coronary arteries emerge from the aorta and extend along the surface of the heart. Branches extend into the heart wall to supply the myocardial cells with oxygen and nourishment. The blood returns to the heart through coronary veins.

An arteriogram (photograph below) provides an image of the coronary arteries by showing contrast dye flowing within the arteries. This normal arteriogram reveals that the arteries are smooth and wide open.

Cross section of a portion of heart wall. The coronary arteries send branches into the heart tissue.

The coronary artery is a conduit supplying blood to the heart. The inner lining is normally smooth.

In cross section, the wall of the artery consists of layers: the smooth inner endothelium, the middle layer of muscle that controls the width of the artery to regulate blood flow through it, and an outer surrounding layer.

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Cardio & Blood-holesterol