The oblique vein of the left atrium: an overlooked vein in anatomical education with emerging clinical importance in atrial fibrillation ablation
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, vol.48, no.1, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 48 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1007/s00276-026-03903-0
- Journal Name: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- Keywords: Anatomical education, Atrial fibrillation ablation, Cardiac venous anatomy, Ligament of Marshall complex, Oblique vein of the left atrium, Vein of Marshall
- Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The oblique vein of the left atrium (Vein of Marshall) is frequently underemphasized in anatomical education and classical texts, often regarded as a minor or vestigial structure. However, contemporary electrophysiological practice has revealed its significant role in the pathophysiology and ablation of atrial fibrillation, particularly through ethanol infusion techniques. This letter highlights the discrepancy between traditional anatomical descriptions and the vein’s emerging clinical importance, emphasizing the need for a more integrated anatomical perspective that reflects modern interventional and electrophysiological advances.