Morphology/Structure
The root of the aorta, or aortic bulb, is the dilated initial portion of the ascending aorta. The aortic bulb must be strong enough to withstand the high pressures produced by left ventricular contraction, and thus, it contains a high degree of elastin within its arterial walls.
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The root of the aorta is found at the junction between the outflow tract of the left ventricle and the ascending aorta. The aortic sinuses are situated here.
Function
The root of the aorta provides the supporting structure for the aortic valve leaflets and gives rise to the coronary vessels.
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Aortic Root
The aortic root is the short segment of the aorta arising from the base of the heart and containing the valve, the annulus, and the sinuses of Valsalva.
