Which artery is responsible for approximately 85% of the coronary blood flow to the heart?

The left coronary artery is responsible for approximately 85% of the coronary blood flow to the heart. This artery branches off into the left anterior descending artery and the circumflex artery, supplying blood to the left atrium, left ventricle, and a portion of the right ventricle. The left ventricle, which is primarily responsible for pumping oxygenated blood to the body, receives the majority of its perfusion from the left coronary artery.

The left coronary artery's extensive branching provides critical blood supply to the heart muscle, especially during periods of increased demand, such as exercise. Understanding the dominance of the left coronary artery in coronary circulation is vital for comprehending how supply meets metabolic needs and the potential implications of blockages in this artery, which can lead to significant cardiac events such as myocardial infarction.