The aortic arch is the top part of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart. Aortic arch syndrome refers to a group of signs and symptoms associated with structural problems in the arteries that branch off the aortic arch.

What is the purpose of an aortic arch?

The aortic arch is the segment of the aorta that helps distribute blood to the head and upper extremities via the brachiocephalic trunk, the left common carotid, and the left subclavian artery. The aortic arch also plays a role in blood pressure homeostasis via baroreceptors found within the walls of the aortic arch.

What is a normal aortic arch?

The normal left aortic arch results from regression of the right arch between the right subclavian artery and the descending aorta, including the right ductus arteriosus (gray). The first branch arising from the arch is the right brachiocephalic artery, followed by the left common carotid and left subclavian arteries.