Pulmonary Vein — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: One of two pairs of vessels carrying oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium of the heart.

Key Facts

• Returns oxygenated blood from lungs to the left atrium.
• Normally four pulmonary veins enter the left atrium.
• Pulmonary venous pressures rise in left-sided heart failure.

ECG Connection: Atrial triggers near pulmonary veins are a common mechanism for atrial fibrillation initiation.

Why It Matters: Irregular atrial rhythms may reflect pulmonary vein-triggered arrhythmia in susceptible patients.