The word "mammary artery" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription [ˈmæməri ˈɑrtr̩i]. The first syllable "mam" is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by the consonant "m". The second syllable "ma" is pronounced with a long "a" sound and the same "m" consonant. The third syllable "ry" is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the consonants "r" and "y". Finally, the word ends with the syllable "artery" which is pronounced with a long "a" sound and the consonants "r", "t", "e", and "r".
The mammary artery is a prominent blood vessel located in the chest region of mammals, including humans. As part of the circulatory system, it serves as a crucial conduit for the transportation of oxygenated blood to nourish and maintain the health of the mammary glands. The mammary artery is responsible for supplying vital nutrients and electrolytes required for the production of milk in female mammals, particularly during lactation.
Originating from the internal thoracic artery, the mammary artery typically arises bilaterally, giving rise to multiple branches that travel along the anterior chest wall. The artery follows a distinct course, running parallel to the sternum, before branching out into smaller vessels within the mammary gland itself. These branches are responsible for supplying rich oxygenated blood directly to the glandular tissue of the mammary glands, facilitating milk production and secretion.
The mammary artery plays a crucial role in the reproductive physiology of mammalian species. It undergoes specific adaptations and increased blood flow during pregnancy and lactation to support the growth and development of the mammary glands. Additionally, the mammary artery is often employed in various surgical procedures, most commonly in coronary artery bypass grafting, to reroute blood flow around narrowed or blocked coronary arteries and improve cardiac function.
The word "mammary" originates from the Latin term "mammaria", which refers to "of or belonging to the breast". The Latin word is derived from the Latin noun "mamma", meaning "breast" or "teat".
On the other hand, the word "artery" comes from the Latin term "arteria", which signifies "windpipe" or "artery". This Latin word stems from the Ancient Greek word "artēria", meaning "windpipe" or "artery".
When these two terms are combined, "mammary artery" refers to an artery that supplies blood to the breast tissue.