Structures to know: Axial Blood Vessels (notes)

Axial Blood Vessels

The major blood vessels that run along the axis of the body, including arteries and veins.

Lumen

The inner open space of a blood vessel through which blood flows.

Endothelium

The thin layer of cells lining the lumen of blood vessels.

Tunica Interna

The innermost layer of blood vessels, made up of the endothelium and a basement membrane.

Tunica Media

The middle layer of blood vessels, primarily composed of smooth muscle and elastic tissue.

Tunica Externa

The outermost layer of a blood vessel, providing structural support and protection.

Aortic Arteries

Arteries branching from the aorta supplying various parts of the body.

Coronary Arteries

Arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle.

Brachiocephalic Trunk

A major artery branching off the aorta that supplies blood to the right arm and head.

Common Carotid Arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the head and neck.

External Carotid Artery

Artery supplying blood to the face and neck.

Internal Carotid Artery

Artery supplying blood to the brain.

Vertebral Arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the brain, branching from the subclavian arteries.

External Jugular Vein

Vein that drains blood from the superficial structures of the head and neck.

Internal Jugular Vein

Vein that drains blood from the brain.

Brachiocephalic Vein

Vein formed by the union of subclavian and internal jugular veins.

Celiac Trunk

A major artery supplying blood to the stomach, pancreas, and spleen.

Hepatic Portal System

A system of veins that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver.

Portal System

A circulatory system consisting of two capillary beds.

Superior Mesenteric Vein

Vein that drains blood from the small intestine and proximal large intestine.

Renal Arteries

Arteries supplying blood to the kidneys.

Gonadal Arteries

Arteries that supply blood to the testes or ovaries.