The correct spelling of the word "arteria phrenica inferior" can be tricky. The first word, "arteria," is spelled the way it sounds: ar-ter-ee-uh. The second word, "phrenica," is pronounced fre-ni-kuh. Finally, the word "inferior" is pronounced in-feer-ee-or. Taken together, the correct spelling is a-r-t-e-r-i-a space p-h-r-e-n-i-c-a space i-n-f-e-r-i-o-r. This refers to the inferior phrenic artery, which supplies blood to the diaphragm muscles, which play a crucial role in breathing.
The term "arteria phrenica inferior" refers to a specific artery in the human body. It is derived from Latin, where "arteria" means artery, "phrenica" denotes its relation to the diaphragm, and "inferior" signifies its lower position. The artery is also known as the inferior phrenic artery in English.
The inferior phrenic artery is a bilateral blood vessel that arises from the abdominal aorta just above the celiac artery. It usually emerges as a pair in most individuals, with one artery being present on the left side while the other on the right side. Each artery ascends superiorly, running along the posterior surface of the diaphragm. As it ascends, it branches into numerous smaller vessels that supply blood to the diaphragm and adjacent structures.
The primary function of the inferior phrenic artery is to ensure an adequate blood supply to the lower part of the diaphragm. This ensures its proper functioning, as the diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and relaxing to allow the movement of air in and out of the lungs. Additionally, the artery also branches to provide blood to the adrenal glands, esophagus, and other surrounding structures.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the inferior phrenic artery is important for medical professionals, particularly surgeons, as they may need to consider it during certain procedures. Additionally, knowledge of this artery is significant for accurately diagnosing and assessing any related medical conditions or abnormalities that may arise.
Origin, abdominal aorta just below diaphragm; distribution, diaphragm; anastomoses, phrenica superior, mammaria interna, and musculophrenica.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.