Aorta

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(Redirected from Aortic diseases)

Aorta segments
Aorta branches
Relations of the aorta, trachea, esophagus and other heart structures.svg
An opened aorta
Aorta Anatomy
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Details
Identifiers
LatinAorta
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Anatomical terminology
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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[edit | edit source]

The aorta is divided into several sections:

Ascending Aorta[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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

Descending Aorta[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Several medical conditions can affect the aorta, including:

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD