köldökartéria

The köldökartéria, or umbilical artery, is a vital blood vessel that runs through the umbilical cord. There are typically two umbilical arteries, although occasionally there may be only one. These arteries carry deoxygenated blood and waste products from the fetus to the placenta. Within the placenta, this blood is cleansed of waste and reoxygenated before being returned to the fetus through the umbilical vein. The umbilical arteries play a crucial role in fetal development by facilitating the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste between the mother and the fetus. After birth, when the umbilical cord is no longer needed, the umbilical arteries constrict and eventually close off. These closed arteries are then known as the medial umbilical ligaments, which are a part of the anatomy of the adult pelvis. Variations in the number or structure of the umbilical arteries can sometimes be associated with certain fetal conditions, and their assessment is a standard part of prenatal care.