artérií

Arteries are blood vessels that transport blood away from the heart to tissues throughout the body. In systemic circulation, arteries usually carry oxygen-rich blood; the pulmonary arteries carry oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs. Arteries begin as large elastic vessels near the heart and progressively narrow into muscular arteries and arterioles that feed capillary beds.

Arterial walls consist of three layers: the tunica intima (a smooth endothelium), the tunica media (smooth muscle and elastic fibers), and the tunica adventitia (outer connective tissue). Elastic arteries near the heart help dampen pulsatile pressure, while muscular arteries distribute flow to specific regions. Arterioles then regulate flow into capillary networks.

Blood flow in arteries is regulated by neural and chemical signals that adjust vessel diameter. Endothelial cells release substances such as nitric oxide to promote dilation or constriction. Arterial pressure falls along the arterial tree and is highest in the aorta.

Major arteries include the aorta and its branches (carotid, subclavian, mesenteric, renal, iliac, femoral), as well as coronary arteries supplying the heart and cerebral arteries supplying the brain.

Disease of arteries—such as atherosclerosis, aneurysm, dissection, or occlusive conditions—can impair blood supply and cause organ damage. Risk factors include smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and lack of exercise.

Diagnosis of arterial conditions uses imaging methods such as Doppler ultrasound, CT angiography, MR angiography, or invasive angiography. Treatments aim to restore blood flow and may include lifestyle changes, medications (antihypertensives, statins, antiplatelets), and revascularization procedures (angioplasty with stent, bypass surgery, atherectomy, or endarterectomy). Acute arterial injury requires immediate care with bleeding control.