toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Aorta

Top of the page

Aorta

The aorta is a large blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It leaves the heart, arches upward, then travels down through the chest and into the abdomen.

The aorta has two main portions:

  • The thoracic portion of the aorta travels through the chest and supplies blood to the upper body.
  • The abdominal portion of the aorta travels through the abdomen and supplies blood to the lower body.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Your Partner in Health.

People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve. 


Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Hailey/Ketchum (208) 727-8800