Running down the thoracic cavity into the diaphragm, the thoracic section of the aorta is really just a continuation of the aortic arch named for the body part which it enters. The organs and the muscles located in the thoracic region benefit from the blood supply maintained by the numerous branches from the continuation of the aortic arch. The pericardial arteries run to the pericardium, supplying the heart with blood. Bronchial arteries, which are part of the systemic system, support the blood demands of the lungs. The esophageal arteries pass through the mediastinum on their way to the esophagus. The wall of the thorax and the intercostal muscles are provided for by the segmental posterior intercostal arteries. Finally, the phrenic arteries support the blood demands of the diaphragm.