Smallest left atrial veins
Venae minimae atriales sinistrae
- Synonym: Left atrial venae minimae
- Related terms: Left atrial veins
Definition
The smallest left atrial veins are the veins belonging to the group of smallest cardiac veins (Thebesian veins) that are minute cardiac veins that drain directly into the one of the four cardiac chambers, and in this case directly into the the left atrium. These vessels represent part of the smaller cardiac vascular system and are distinct from the larger coronary venous drainage pathways.
The left atrium and left ventricle contain a lesser number of Thebesian veins compared to right-sided cardiac chambers.
References
