Descending aorta

Descending aorta is the part of the aorta, the largest artery in the body, that runs down through the chest and abdomen. The descending aorta begins at the aortic arch and ends by dividing into the two iliac arteries that go to the legs.

Structure

The descending aorta is divided into two parts: the thoracic aorta (chest) and the abdominal aorta. The thoracic aorta travels down through the chest to the diaphragm, a muscle that helps with breathing. The abdominal aorta begins at the diaphragm, running down to the abdomen where it splits into the iliac arteries.

Function

The descending aorta carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the lower part of the body. Along its course, it gives off numerous branches that supply oxygenated blood to the ribs and some organs such as the kidneys and stomach.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the descending aorta can be life-threatening and include aneurysms, dissections, and ulcers. These conditions can cause the aorta to enlarge, tear, or rupture, leading to serious complications such as internal bleeding or death.

See also

• Aorta
• Aortic aneurysm
• Aortic dissection
• Aortic ulcer

References

Descending aorta Resources
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