Descending and ascending aorta pic
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Here are the anatomy diagrams of the ascending and descending aorta from Fischer's Mastery of Surgery (8th Ed.):
Ascending Aorta and Arch of Aorta
Figure 234.1 - Relationships of the ascending aorta and arch of aorta (anterior view):
Key structures shown:
- Ascending aorta - arises from the left ventricle, courses anterosuperiorly and to the right
- Arch of aorta - gives off the brachiocephalic artery, left common carotid artery, and left subclavian artery
- The left recurrent laryngeal nerve hooks under the arch of the aorta at the ligamentum arteriosum
Descending (Thoracic) Aorta - Lateral View
Figure 234.3 - Thoracic aorta: Lateral view of left side of the mediastinum:
Descending Thoracic Aorta - Right Anterolateral View
Figure 234.4 - Relationships of the thoracic (descending) aorta, right anterolateral view:
Key structures shown:
- Descending (thoracic) aorta - travels inferiorly in the posterior mediastinum to the left of T5-T12 vertebrae
- Esophageal branches of the thoracic aorta
- Relations with azygos vein, thoracic duct, esophagus, right bronchial artery, and intercostal arteries
- Becomes the abdominal aorta at T12, passing through the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm
Summary of key anatomy:
| Segment | Origin | Termination | Key branches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ascending aorta | Aortic valve / left ventricle | Sternal angle (T4-T5) | Left & right coronary arteries |
| Arch of aorta | Sternal angle | T4-T5 (left side) | Brachiocephalic trunk, L. common carotid, L. subclavian |
| Descending thoracic aorta | Distal to L. subclavian (T4-T5) | Aortic hiatus (T12) | Bronchial, esophageal, posterior intercostal arteries |
Source: Fischer's Mastery of Surgery, 8th Edition, Chapter 234
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