What is the Abdominal Aorta?
The abdominal aorta is that part of the aorta below the diaphragm that gives rise to the abdominal organs and kidneys before dividing into two branches (iliac arteries) that carry the blood to the legs. The aorta, in summary, delivers oxygenated blood pumped from the heart to the rest of the body. How are Aneurysms Differentiated? Aneurysms are characterized by their location, shape, and cause. A thoracic aortic aneurysm is located in the chest area and can involve the ascending, arch, or descending thoracic aorta. The thoracic aorta can be divided into segments: ascending aorta aortic arch descending aorta An aneurysm may be located in one of these areas and/or may be continuous throughout the aorta. An aneurysm called a thoracoabdominal aneurysm involves a thoracic aortic aneurysm extending down to and involving the abdominal aorta. These aneurysms are relatively rare and the treatment may involve replacement of the entire aorta. This complex surgical procedure may involve reconnecti
