Thoracic aorta
Thoracic Aorta
The Thoracic Aorta (pronounced: tho-RAS-ik a-OR-ta) is the largest artery in the thoracic part of the aorta. It is a continuation of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch, and it descends within the thorax to the diaphragm.
Etymology
The term "Thoracic" is derived from the Greek word "thorax," meaning chest, and "Aorta" comes from the Greek word "aortē," which means 'that which is hung up' or 'the great artery.'
Anatomy
The thoracic aorta begins at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra (T4) where it continues from the aortic arch and ends at the level of the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), where it passes through the diaphragm to become the abdominal aorta. It is divided into three parts: the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and the descending aorta.
Function
The primary function of the thoracic aorta is to transport oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It does this by branching out into smaller arteries, which then branch out into even smaller arterioles, and finally into capillaries where the oxygen is delivered to the cells.
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.
- Ascending Aorta: The section of the aorta located at the top of the heart that receives blood directly from the left ventricle.
- Aortic Arch: The part of the aorta that bends between the ascending and descending aorta.
- Abdominal Aorta: The largest artery in the abdominal cavity, it supplies blood to the organs and tissues of the abdomen, pelvis, and legs.
- Diaphragm: A dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a major role in breathing.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thoracic aorta
- Wikipedia's article - Thoracic aorta
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