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Small cardiac vein

The small cardiac vein, also known as the right coronary vein,[1] is a coronary vein that drains parts of the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart.[2] Despite its size, it is one of the major drainage vessels for the heart.[3]

Small cardiac vein

venae cardiacae minimae,
vena cordis parva

Anatomy[edit]

Course[edit]

The small cardiac vein runs in the coronary sulcus between the right atrium and right ventricle, and opens into the right extremity of the coronary sinus.[1][2]

Territory[edit]

The small cardiac vein receives blood from the posterior portion of the right atrium and ventricle.[2]

Variation[edit]

The small cardiac vein may empty into the coronary sinus, right atrium, or middle cardiac vein. It may be absent.[4]

at Human Anatomy Online, SUNY Downstate Medical Center - "Anterior view of the heart."

Anatomy figure: 20:03-06