Aortic arch
Aortic Arch
The Aortic Arch (pronounced: ay-OR-tik ark) is a segment of the systemic circulation's main artery, the aorta. It is responsible for transporting oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Etymology
The term "Aortic Arch" is derived from the Latin words 'aorta', meaning 'the great artery', and 'arch', referring to its curved structure.
Anatomy
The Aortic Arch begins at the level of the second thoracic vertebra and ends at the level of the fourth thoracic vertebra. It gives rise to three main branches: the brachiocephalic artery, the left common carotid artery, and the left subclavian artery. These arteries supply blood to the head, neck, and upper limbs.
Physiology
The Aortic Arch plays a crucial role in the circulatory system. It receives oxygenated blood from the left ventricle of the heart and distributes it to the upper part of the body. The Aortic Arch also contains baroreceptors and chemoreceptors that help regulate blood pressure and the balance of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood.
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.
- Brachiocephalic artery: The major blood vessel originating from the aortic arch that supplies blood to the right arm and the head and neck.
- Left common carotid artery: The second branch of the aortic arch, supplying oxygenated blood to the head and neck.
- Left subclavian artery: The third branch of the aortic arch, supplying blood to the left arm.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aortic arch
- Wikipedia's article - Aortic arch
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