Definition: The largest artery in the body, the aorta connects directly to the heart and is the first blood vessel that blood contacts as it leaves the heart at the start of the circulatory cycle.
Pronunciation: a-OR-ta
"Aorta"
By Craig Weber, M.D., About.com
Updated: November 13, 2006
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Rich Fogoros, MD
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