abdominal aorta

The abdominal aorta is the portion of the aorta that extends from the diaphragm down into the abdominal cavity. It is the largest artery in the systemic circulation and carries oxygenated blood from the heart to various organs and structures in the abdomen and lower body.12

Key facts about the abdominal aorta:
* Origin: It begins after the aorta passes through the diaphragm.1
* Branches: It gives off numerous visceral branches supplying organs like the stomach, liver, intestines, kidneys, and reproductive glands. It also has parietal branches supplying the abdominal wall and diaphragm.1
* Termination: The abdominal aorta divides into the right and left common iliac arteries, which then supply blood to the legs.1
* Diseases: Atherosclerosis can affect the abdominal aorta, potentially leading to dilation or the formation of aneurysms (bulging of the vessel wall), which can be life-threatening if they rupture.3