Aorta vs Diaphragm
| Property | Aorta | Diaphragm |
|---|---|---|
| Latin Name | Aorta | Musculus diaphragma |
| Type | Vessel | Muscle |
| Body System | Cardiovascular | Muscular |
| Body Region | Heart Region | Thorax |
| Function | The largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to distribute to all body tissues via its branches. Maintains blood pressure through elastic recoil of its … | The primary muscle of respiration. Contraction flattens the dome-shaped muscle, increasing thoracic volume and creating negative pressure to draw air into the lungs during inspiration. |
| Clinical Significance | Aortic aneurysm (dilation) can rupture, causing fatal hemorrhage. Aortic dissection is a life-threatening tear in the aortic wall. Atherosclerosis commonly affects the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital … | Diaphragmatic hernias allow abdominal organs to enter the thoracic cavity. Phrenic nerve paralysis causes diaphragmatic elevation. Hiccups result from involuntary diaphragmatic spasms. |
| FMA ID | 3734 | 13295 |
Full structure pages
Aorta
Aorta
The largest artery in the body, the aorta carries oxygenated blood from the left ventricle and distributes it to all tissues through its branches. Elastic recoil of its walls, the Windkessel effect, helps maintain blood …