What Are the Functions of an Elastic Artery?

Blood vessels near the heart like the aorta, pulmonary and other large arteries that originate in the chest area are referred to as elastic arteries and help "kickoff" blood flow through the body.

Function

According to Dr. Thomas Caceci of the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathology at Virginia Tech "Elastic arteries are constructed like fire hoses," he says. "Rightly so, because they have the same function: to carry a stream of liquid under high pressure."

Significance

Elastic arteries serve to help the coronary muscle force blood away from the heart and to the body. "When the heart beats, the artery expands as it fills with blood," says The Franklin Institute. "When the heart relaxes, the artery contracts, exerting a force strong enough to push the blood along."

Identification

Artery walls are comprised of 3 layers, the tunica intima, tunica media and tunica adventitia. The tunica intima in elastic arteries moves separately from other layers which allows for the "pumping" nature of an elastic artery.

Effects

The tunica media is made up chiefly of tiny elastic fibers that help an elastic artery fulfill the role of a sort of "pressure reservoir."

Considerations

The flexible nature of tissue in elastic arteries remains vital for proper circulation. Cardiovascular disease, the primary cause of death across the globe, develops when arteries become damaged and lose their elasticity.

References

• Virginia Tech University; Cardiovascular System: Arteries and Veins by Dr. Thomas Caceci
• The Franklin Institute; Arteries: Arteries Carry Away