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The Aorta: Anatomy, Branches, and Clinical Significance

The aorta is the largest artery, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to systemic circulation.

Segments

  1. Aortic root/ascending aorta: Coronary arteries originate here.
  2. Aortic arch: Brachiocephalic trunk, left common carotid, left subclavian arteries → head, neck, arms.
  3. Descending thoracic aorta: Intercostal, bronchial, esophageal branches.
  4. Abdominal aorta: Celiac, SMA, IMA, renal, gonadal, iliac branches → abdominal organs, pelvis, legs.

Clinical Importance

  • Aneurysm: Dilation risk → rupture (thoracic/abdominal). Screening for men 65–75 who smoked.
  • Dissection: Intimal tear → false lumen. Tearing chest/back pain. Emergency.
  • Coarctation: Congenital narrowing → hypertension.
  • Atherosclerosis: Plaque → embolism, stenosis.

Imaging: CT angiography, MR angiography, ultrasound, echocardiography.

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