The aortic notch is a term used to describe a small indentation in the aorta, the body's main artery. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which is a system of phonetic notation based on the sounds of spoken language. The pronunciation of aortic notch in IPA is /eɪˈɔr.tɪk/ /nɑtʃ/, with the first syllable pronounced like "ay" and the second syllable rhyming with "orchid." The spelling reflects the sounds of the word when spoken aloud.
The aortic notch, also known as the aortic incisura, is a term used in cardiovascular anatomy to describe a small dip or notch seen on the ascending aorta. It refers to a slight, V-shaped indentation that is found on the proximal part of the ascending aorta, just above the aortic valve. The aortic notch appears as a shallow curve or dip in the wall of the aorta when viewed from the front or back.
This characteristic anatomical feature has important physiological significance. The aortic notch corresponds to the point at which the aortic valve closes, preventing the backflow of blood into the left ventricle during diastole, the relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle. When the heart is at rest, the aortic valve snaps shut, creating a brief interruption in the smooth flow of blood and causing the aortic wall to briefly bulge outward. This outward bulging forms the aortic notch.
The prominence of the aortic notch can vary among individuals, and its size and shape may change depending on factors like age and overall cardiovascular health. Examination and analysis of the aortic notch can provide valuable information about various cardiovascular conditions, including aortic valve disorders, hypertension, aortic coarctation, and other diseases affecting the aorta. Through medical imaging techniques, such as echocardiography or computed tomography (CT), healthcare professionals can evaluate the aortic notch to assess cardiac function and diagnose potential abnormalities or diseases related to the aorta.
The slight notch in the sphygmographic tracing caused by the rebound at the closure of the aortic valves.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "aortic" is derived from the Greek word "aortē", meaning "aorta" or "large artery". It comes from the combination of the Greek words "aēr", meaning "air", and "aortein", meaning "raise". This name was given to the aorta due to its perceived ability to carry air.
The term "notch" is derived from the Middle English word "noche" and the Old French word "noche", both meaning "nick" or "notch". It refers to a V-shaped indentation or cut in an object.
So, the etymology of the word "aortic notch" combines the Greek roots for "aorta" and the Middle English/French term for "notch" to describe the V-shaped indentation found on the aorta.