The crista terminalis courses caudally along which aspect of the right atrium?

The crista terminalis courses caudally along which aspect of the right atrium?

• A. Anterior aspect
• B. Posterior lateral aspect
• C. Superior aspect
• D. Inferior aspect

Answer: (B)

The crista terminalis is the muscular ridge that marks the boundary between the smooth posterior wall (sinus venarum) and the rough, pectinated anterior wall of the right atrium. It travels from the region near the superior vena cava and descends along the posterolateral surface of the atrium toward the inferior vena cava. This posterior-lateral course explains why it’s described as moving along the posterior lateral aspect. It isn’t located primarily on the anterior wall, nor restricted to the superior roof or inferior edge.

The crista terminalis is the muscular ridge that marks the boundary between the smooth posterior wall (sinus venarum) and the rough, pectinated anterior wall of the right atrium. It travels from the region near the superior vena cava and descends along the posterolateral surface of the atrium toward the inferior vena cava. This posterior-lateral course explains why it’s described as moving along the posterior lateral aspect. It isn’t located primarily on the anterior wall, nor restricted to the superior roof or inferior edge.