Pericardiacophrenic artery

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== Pericardiacophrenic artery ==

The pericardiacophrenic artery is a long, slender artery that arises from the internal thoracic artery. It is an important vessel that supplies blood to the pericardium and the diaphragm.

Anatomy

The pericardiacophrenic artery typically originates from the internal thoracic artery, which is a branch of the subclavian artery. It descends through the thoracic cavity alongside the phrenic nerve, running between the pleura and the pericardium.

Function

The primary function of the pericardiacophrenic artery is to provide oxygenated blood to the pericardium, the fibrous sac surrounding the heart, and to the diaphragm, the major muscle involved in respiration.

Clinical Significance

The pericardiacophrenic artery can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, it may be affected during cardiac surgery or in cases of pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium. Damage to this artery can lead to complications such as hemopericardium, where blood accumulates in the pericardial sac.

Related Structures

• Internal thoracic artery
• Subclavian artery
• Phrenic nerve
• Pericardium
• Diaphragm

See Also

• Cardiovascular system
• Thoracic cavity
• Respiratory system