The aorta is the main trunk of a series of vessels which convey the oxygenated blood to the tissues of the body for their nutrition. It commences at the upper part of the left ventricle, where it is about 3 cm. in diameter, and after ascending for a short distance, arches backward and to the left side, over the root of the left lung; it then descends within the thorax on the left side of the vertebral column, passes into the abdominal cavity through the aortic hiatus in the diaphragm, and ends, considerably diminished in size (about 1.75 cm. in diameter), opposite the lower border of the fourth lumbar vertebra, by dividing into the right and left common iliac arteries. Hence it is described in several portions, viz., the ascending aorta, the arch of the aorta, and the descending aorta, which last is again divided into the thoracic and abdominal aorta.
2007-02-28 08:29:37
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answer #1
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answered by Dr.Qutub 7
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When oxygenated blood returns from the lungs,entering the left ventricle,the blood is forced out and pumped to the rest of the body via the largest artery in the body,the aorta.The aortic arch is the beginning of the descending aorta that services the lower body.It resembles a upside down"J',at the apex of the aorta there are 3 branches that service the head and upper body,#1common carotids,#2 left subclavian,#3 innominates arteries.This huge artery is also the source of many aneurysms (ballooning.)from a weakness in the walls of aorta.as a result of arteriosclerosis,traumatic chest injuries,hereditary connective tissue diseases.Take care. SW RNP
2007-02-28 03:11:16
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answer #2
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answered by sharon w 5
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Aortic arch is situated behind the sternum and is the continuation of ascending aorta. From this arch arise three main arterial trunks i.e left subclavian left common carotid and innominate arteries.
2007-02-28 02:32:17
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answer #3
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answered by akn 1
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Please see the web page for more details on Aortic arch.
2007-02-28 02:39:15
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answer #4
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answered by gangadharan nair 7
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