The right coronary artery primarily supplies which region of the heart?

The right coronary artery primarily supplies the inferior wall of the left ventricle due to its branching and distribution patterns. When the right coronary artery arises from the aorta, it typically travels along the right atrioventricular groove and gives off branches that supply the right atrium, right ventricle, and the inferior aspect of the left ventricle through the posterior descending artery (PDA).

The inferior wall of the left ventricle receives blood flow primarily from the branches of the right coronary artery in most individuals, particularly in those who are right dominant circulatory systems, which is common. This relationship is crucial in understanding coronary artery supply patterns and the implications for ischemic heart disease or infarctions that might impact specific areas of the heart.

In contrast, the anterior left ventricle is primarily supplied by the left coronary artery, while the left atrium also receives its blood supply from the left coronary system. The apex of the heart can receive supply from both coronary arteries, but it does not have a direct primary supply from the right coronary artery. Hence, recognizing that the right coronary artery plays a vital role in supplying the inferior wall of the left ventricle is essential in understanding cardiac anatomy and function.