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Branches

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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The descending aorta gives off a number of branches during its descent through the posterior mediastinum:

  • bronchial arteries
  • oesophageal arteries
  • posterior intercostal arteries
  • subcostal arteries
  • mediastinal branches; run anteriorly to supply connective and lymphatic tissue within the mediastinum
  • pericardial branches; several small branches which run anteriorly from the lower oesophagus to supply the posterior surface of the pericardial sac
  • superior phrenic arteries:
    • several small branches arising just superior to the diaphragm
    • pass inferiorly to supply its posterior thoracic surface
    • anastomose with the musculophrenic and pericardiophrenic arteries

In addition, there may be a small branch termed the arteria aberrans.

The descending aorta is in continuity with the abdominal aorta throught the aortic hiatus.

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