aortic

Aortic refers to the aorta, the largest artery in the circulatory system. The aorta originates at the left ventricle of the heart and travels upward as the ascending aorta, then arches (the aortic arch) and continues as the descending thoracic aorta before becoming the abdominal aorta as it passes through the diaphragm. It distributes oxygenated blood to the body via a series of branches, including the coronary arteries at the heart’s base and arteries that supply the head, limbs, and abdominal organs.

Branches and distribution play a central role in its function. From the aortic arch arise the brachiocephalic trunk (which divides into the right subclavian and right common carotid), the left common carotid, and the left subclavian arteries. In the thorax, intercostal arteries branch from the aorta; in the abdomen, major branches include the celiac trunk, superior mesenteric, renal, gonadal, inferior mesenteric, and, ultimately, the common iliac arteries. The aorta is essential for maintaining systemic blood pressure and organ perfusion across the body.

Clinical significance and imaging are key components of its study. Aortic disease includes aneurysm, a weakening and dilation that risk rupture; dissection, a tear in the vessel wall with separation of layers; and coarctation, a narrowing often located near the ductus arteriosus. Atherosclerosis can affect the aorta and contribute to cardiovascular risk. Diagnosis uses imaging modalities such as ultrasound, computed tomography angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, and echocardiography. Treatments range from medical management of risk factors and blood pressure to surgical interventions, including open repair or endovascular repair (stent graft) for aneurysms; emergency surgery is often required for dissections. Embryologically, the aorta develops from pharyngeal arch arteries and the truncus arteriosus.