22. What vessels carry deoxygenated blood?

Deoxygenated blood is primarily carried by the veins in the body, with the superior and inferior vena cava being the main vessels that transport this low-oxygen blood back to the heart. These large veins collect blood from the upper and lower parts of the body, respectively. Once the deoxygenated blood reaches the right atrium of the heart, it's ready to be pumped to the lungs for oxygenation! Additionally, the pulmonary arteries are unique in that they carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs. This is quite a twist from the usual role of arteries! While most arteries carry oxygenated blood, the pulmonary arteries are responsible for delivering blood to the lungs to pick up that life-giving oxygen. It’s a reverse role that’s essential for our survival!