Thoracic aorta

Thoracic aorta is the section of the aorta that lies within the thorax - the part of the body between the neck and the abdomen. It is a vital part of the circulatory system, carrying oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Anatomy

The thoracic aorta begins at the aortic arch and descends through the thorax to the diaphragm. It is divided into three sections: the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and the descending aorta. The ascending aorta rises from the left ventricle of the heart, the aortic arch curves over the heart, and the descending aorta travels down the back of the chest wall.

Function

The primary function of the thoracic aorta is to transport oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It does this by branching into smaller arteries, which in turn branch into even smaller vessels that reach every part of the body.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the thoracic aorta can be life-threatening and include aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, and aortic stenosis. These conditions can cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting, and require immediate medical attention.

See also

• Aorta
• Aortic aneurysm
• Aortic dissection
• Aortic stenosis

References

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  Thoracic aorta
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  Diagram of the aorta
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  Aortic dissection
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  Anatomy of the aorta
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  Cross-section of the aorta