Travels down behind the heart through the chest ( thoracic aorta ) and abdomen ( abdominal aorta ) before splitting into the iliac arteries to supply the legs. Functions
It delivers oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to organs and supporting tissue throughout the body.
Curves over the heart, giving off branches that supply the brain, head, neck, and arms.
A life-threatening emergency where the inner layer of the aortic wall tears, allowing blood to flow between the layers, causing them to separate.
The elastic wall expands with each heartbeat, preventing high blood pressure spikes and ensuring a steady flow to organs. Critical Aortic Conditions