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Glite Dictionary
aortic isthmus

aortic isthmus

8.3
Narrow part of the aorta near the heart where upper branches join the lower aorta
  • noun
  • /eɪˈɔrtɪk ˈɪsθməs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : isthmo aórtico
  • In fetal development, the aortic isthmus plays a significant role in directing blood flow.

Examples

  • A narrowing at the aortic isthmus can sometimes be detected in prenatal ultrasounds.

  • The surgeon examined the aortic isthmus for evidence of obstruction in the newborn.

  • The aortic isthmus is crucial for proper blood flow.

  • Can you explain the function of the aortic isthmus?

  • In fetal circulation, the aortic isthmus connects the left subclavian artery to the descending aorta.

  • The aortic isthmus is often noted during cardiac assessments in newborns.

  • Doctors monitor the aortic isthmus to ensure proper blood distribution during pregnancy.

Surface Forms

aortic isthmus singular
aortic isthmuses plural

Morphology

aortic + isthmus

The phrase is compositionally transparent: 'aortic' specifies the aorta and 'isthmus' denotes a narrow connecting part, so a learner who knows both constituents can infer it refers to a narrow section/connection of the aorta. Though the precise anatomical location and clinical implications are specialist knowledge, the basic meaning is directly derivable from the parts.

Etymology

Aortic isthmus comes from aortic, for the main artery, and isthmus, meaning a narrow 'bridge' or 'neck', so it names the thin part of the aorta where the arch bends and the part that goes down begins.