Aortic bifurcation

Aortic bifurcation is the point at which the aorta, the main artery of the body, splits into the two iliac arteries that supply blood to the lower half of the body. This typically occurs at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra, although there can be variation in its exact location.

Etymology

The term "aortic bifurcation" comes from the Latin aorta, meaning 'main artery', and bifurcation, meaning 'division into two branches'.

Anatomy

The aortic bifurcation is located in the abdomen, typically at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra. It is the point at which the aorta, the largest artery in the body, splits into the two common iliac arteries. These arteries then further divide into the internal and external iliac arteries, which supply blood to the pelvis and lower limbs respectively.

Clinical significance

The aortic bifurcation is an important landmark in both diagnostic imaging and surgical procedures. It can be affected by a number of conditions, including aortic aneurysm, atherosclerosis, and trauma. In particular, the location of the aortic bifurcation can influence the development and treatment of aortic aneurysms.

Related terms

• Aorta: 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 the two iliac arteries.
• Iliac arteries: Two large arteries that originate from the aortic bifurcation and supply blood to the pelvis and lower limbs.
• Abdomen: The part of the body that contains the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas. The aortic bifurcation is located in the abdomen.
• Aortic aneurysm: An abnormal bulge that occurs in the wall of the aorta. Depending on its location and size, an aortic aneurysm can be life-threatening.
• Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Atherosclerosis can affect any artery in the body, including the aorta.

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