Descending thoracic aorta

Aorta thoracica

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What it is

Runs down the posterior mediastinum from T4 to T12, just left of the vertebral bodies and behind the left atrium and oesophagus, and leaves the chest through the aortic hiatus of the diaphragm.

Function

Gives posterior intercostal, bronchial, oesophageal and superior phrenic branches and conveys blood to the abdomen and legs.

Size

~20 cm long, ~2.3–2.5 cm diameter.

Clinical note

The isthmus just beyond the left subclavian origin is where coarctation occurs and where the aorta tears in high-speed deceleration injuries.