Definition

Noun: A major blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. Specifically, it is one of the two arteries (the left pulmonary artery and the right pulmonary artery) that branch from the pulmonary trunk.

Usage

The term "pulmonary artery" is used in medical and anatomical contexts to describe this specific vessel. It is a singular noun but often discussed in its plural form ("pulmonary arteries") when referring to both branches.

Examples

• The pulmonary artery carries blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs.
• A blockage in a pulmonary artery can be a medical emergency.
• Surgeons repaired the defect in the baby's pulmonary artery.

Advanced Usage

• "Pulmonary artery catheter": A specialized catheter inserted into the pulmonary artery to measure heart function and blood pressure in the lungs.
• "Pulmonary artery pressure": The blood pressure measured within the pulmonary artery, an important indicator of cardiovascular health.

Variants and Related Words

• Pulmonary trunk (n): The short, wide vessel that arises from the right ventricle and divides into the left and right pulmonary arteries.
• Pulmonary circulation (n): The part of the circulatory system that carries blood from the heart to the lungs and back to the heart.
• Pulmonary (adj): Relating to the lungs (e.g., pulmonary disease, pulmonary function).

Synonyms

• Arteria pulmonalis (n): The Latin anatomical term.

Notes on Meaning

It is critical to note that while most arteries carry oxygenated blood, the pulmonary artery is an exception as it carries deoxygenated blood away from the heart toward the lungs. Its function is central to the process of oxygenation in the lungs.

Noun

1. one of two arteries (branches of the pulmonary trunk) that carry venous blood from the heart to the lungs