Answer to Keep it Down!
Correct answer is C. The transverse sinus is a space between the superior vena cava as it enters the right atrium and the ascending aorta. Examining the heart from the superior view can be disorienting to students. You should become familiar with the main vessels and chambers of the heart from this perspective. Thoracic surgeons often place their index finger into the transverse sinus to hold the ascending aorta and SVC prior to connecting the patient to the cardiopulmonary bypass pump. As to why such a young patient is needing a coronary bypass, currently this would be considered a rare event. However, the effects of a five year period of alcohol use disorder has not been studied much, and someone born with familial hypercholesterolaemia could be a young candidate for coronary artery disease.
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Answer to this question is based on material presented in lectures 12 of the Thorax Lecture Series.
= Space between Pulmonary trunk and Ascending aorta
= Opening of left atrium
= Transverse pericardial sinus
= Coronary sinus
= Space between Pulmonary trunk and Ascending aorta