Tüdartériák

Tüdartériák, also known as pulmonary arteries, are major blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs. They are unique in the circulatory system because they carry blood away from the heart, a characteristic of arteries, but transport deoxygenated blood, which is typically a function of veins.

The pulmonary artery originates from the pulmonary trunk, which arises from the right ventricle. This trunk then bifurcates into the right and left pulmonary arteries, supplying blood to the respective lungs. Within the lungs, these arteries branch into smaller arterioles and eventually into capillaries that surround the alveoli. It is within these capillaries that gas exchange occurs, with carbon dioxide being released from the blood and oxygen being absorbed.

The walls of the pulmonary arteries are thinner and less muscular than those of systemic arteries, as the blood pressure in the pulmonary circulation is significantly lower. This lower pressure is sufficient to perfuse the delicate lung capillaries.

Following gas exchange in the lungs, the now oxygenated blood returns to the left atrium of the heart via the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary arteries are crucial for the vital process of oxygenating the blood, enabling the body's cells to receive the oxygen necessary for respiration and metabolic functions. Any disease or condition affecting the pulmonary arteries can have serious implications for oxygen transport and overall cardiovascular health.