Small Cardiac Vein

vena cardiaca parva

The small cardiac vein runs alongside the right marginal artery in the right atrioventricular groove and drains the right atrium and right ventricle margin, joining the coronary sinus at its right end near the ostium. It is the smallest of the three named tributaries of the coronary sinus. In some individuals it drains directly into the right atrium rather than the sinus.

Region: Chest

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The small cardiac vein is occasionally used as an additional reference landmark in coronary sinus catheterisation for CRT lead placement, as its junction with the coronary sinus near the ostium is a waypoint in the right atrium anatomy. During right atrial surgery and tricuspid valve repair, the coronary sinus ostium and its relationship to the small cardiac vein are anatomical landmarks that guide suture placement. Its right-sided drainage means it is seldom the target for LV pacing lead placement.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Small Cardiac Vein as Coronary Sinus Landmark

The junction of the small cardiac vein with the coronary sinus ostium in the right atrioventricular groove provides a reference point during coronary sinus cannulation for CRT, distinguishing the true coronary sinus ostium from the thebesian valve or right atrial structures.