Aorta

Aorta segments

Aorta branches

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Relations of the aorta, trachea, esophagus and other heart structures.svg

An opened aorta

Aorta Anatomy

Main artery of the human body

The aorta is the main and largest artery in the human body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen, where it splits into two smaller arteries (the common iliac arteries). The aorta distributes oxygenated blood to all parts of the body through the systemic circulation.

Anatomy

The aorta is divided into several sections:

• The ascending aorta begins at the aortic valve and extends to the aortic arch.
• The aortic arch curves over the heart, giving rise to the brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, and the left subclavian artery.
• The descending aorta is further divided into the thoracic aorta and the abdominal aorta.

Ascending Aorta

The ascending aorta arises from the left ventricle of the heart and extends to the aortic arch. It is approximately 5 cm in length and is responsible for supplying blood to the coronary arteries.

Aortic Arch

The aortic arch is the portion of the aorta that bends between the ascending and descending aorta. It gives rise to three major arteries:

• The brachiocephalic artery, which further divides into the right subclavian artery and the right common carotid artery.
• The left common carotid artery, which supplies blood to the left side of the head and neck.
• The left subclavian artery, which supplies blood to the left arm.

Descending Aorta

The descending aorta is divided into the thoracic and abdominal aorta:

• The thoracic aorta runs from the aortic arch to the diaphragm.
• The abdominal aorta extends from the diaphragm to the point where it bifurcates into the common iliac arteries.

Function

The primary function of the aorta is to carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the systemic circulation and ensuring that all tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.

Clinical Significance

Several medical conditions can affect the aorta, including:

• Aortic aneurysm: An abnormal bulge in the wall of the aorta.
• Aortic dissection: A serious condition in which the inner layer of the aorta tears.
• Aortic stenosis: Narrowing of the aortic valve opening, restricting blood flow.

See Also

• Cardiovascular system
• Artery
• Heart
• Systemic circulation