Aorta

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The aorta is the body's largest artery and main blood vessel. It's responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

The aorta starts in the lower-left part of the heart and extends through the chest and abdomen. It forms a cane-shaped curve that allows other arteries to deliver oxygen-rich blood to the brain, muscles, and other cells.

The aorta branches off into blood vessels that extend to organs and supporting tissue. It splits at the aortic bifurcation into two smaller arteries.

A tear in the aorta can affect the brain, lungs, arms, legs, and heart. Treatment depends on the location of the tear. Surgery is most likely needed if the tear is on the ascending aorta.

Videos

Aorta and its branches

Normal Anatomy of the Aorta

Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection