Ascending aorta

Ascending Aorta

The ascending aorta is a major part of the human cardiovascular system. It is the initial section of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, which carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Anatomy

The ascending aorta begins at the upper part of the left ventricle of the heart. It extends upward and bends to form the aortic arch. The ascending aorta is approximately 5 cm in diameter and 5 cm in length. It is located in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity.

Function

The primary function of the ascending aorta is to carry oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body. It does this by branching into the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, and the aortic arch, which carries blood to the head, neck, and upper body.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the ascending aorta can be life-threatening and include aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, and aortic stenosis. These conditions can lead to complications such as heart failure, stroke, and even death if not promptly diagnosed and treated.

See also

• Aorta
• Aortic arch
• Coronary arteries
• Left ventricle