Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The aortic arch is a curved blood vessel from which arteries branch to the head and upper body. It is the top part of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart to distribute it throughout the body.
The largest artery in the body, originating from the left ventricle of the heart and extending down to the abdomen, where it splits into smaller arteries.
Brachiocephalic artery: An artery that branches off from the aortic arch and supplies blood to the right arm and the head and neck.
Carotid arteries: Two major arteries (left and right) that originate from different areas near the heart but primarily supply blood to large portions of the face, head, and brain