Left Anterior Descending (LAD) Artery — RCIS Exam Glossary

Courses down the anterior interventricular sulcus toward the cardiac apex, where it frequently branches in a characteristic "mustache" or "whale tail" sign. The LAD gives off:

Anterior view of the heart with the left anterior descending artery highlighted running down the anterior interventricular sulcus toward the apex, labelling septal perforator branches, diagonal branches crossing the anterolateral left ventricular free wall, and the apical wrap known as the mustache or whale-tail sign. — The LAD’s course, its septal and diagonal branches, and the apical wrap.

Domain: Cath Lab Anatomy & Hemodynamics · Blueprint: RCIS exam guide

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Written and reviewed by John-Philip (JP) Maarschalk, BSN, RN, CNML — a nurse manager who runs operations for the cardiac cath lab, electrophysiology, and interventional service lines at an academic health system in North Carolina. He hires and develops the staff who sit for these exams. More about JP and how this content is made →

Cardiac Codex is an independent study tool published by MdoubleA LLC, not affiliated with or endorsed by CCI or any certifying body. This glossary entry is exam-preparation information, not medical advice or a substitute for clinical judgment. Always verify current clinical practice against primary sources and institutional protocol.