What structure drains the lymphatics of the heart?

The subpericardial plexus is the structure responsible for draining the lymphatics of the heart. This plexus is located within the pericardial sac and consists of a network of lymphatic vessels that collect lymphatic fluid from the myocardium and the pericardium.

This drainage system is essential for maintaining fluid balance and facilitating immune responses within the cardiac environment. The lymph collected ultimately drains into the larger lymphatic vessels, eventually contributing to the thoracic duct. The subpericardial plexus is specifically adapted to the anatomical position and functional requirements of the heart, making it the primary structure for its lymphatic drainage.

The other choices refer to larger or different lymphatic structures that do not directly serve the heart’s lymphatic drainage. The thoracic duct is the main lymphatic vessel in the body but serves a much broader area beyond just the heart. The left and right lymphatic channels are also larger vessels that collect lymph from other regions and do not specifically drain the lymphatics of the heart like the subpericardial plexus does.