Pulmonary arteries

Definition

Pulmonary arteries are blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs. They are a crucial component of the pulmonary circulation system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pulmonary arteries originate from the right ventricle and split into left and right branches.
2. They are unique because they carry deoxygenated blood, unlike most arteries which carry oxygenated blood.
3. The main pulmonary artery is also known as the pulmonary trunk.
4. Pulmonary arteries play a key role in gas exchange by delivering blood to the lungs for oxygenation.
5. Blockages or malfunctions in pulmonary arteries can lead to serious conditions such as pulmonary hypertension or embolism.

Review Questions

• What type of blood do pulmonary arteries carry, and where do they transport it?
• How do pulmonary arteries differ from other arteries in the body?
• What are some potential health issues related to the malfunctioning of pulmonary arteries?

Related terms

Right Ventricle: The chamber of the heart that pumps deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary arteries.

Pulmonary Veins: Blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the left atrium of the heart.

Pulmonary Circulation: The portion of cardiovascular circulation which carries deoxygenated blood away from the heart, to the lungs, and returns oxygenated blood back to the heart.