Which of the following statement regarding umbilical cord is TRUE?
**Core Concept**
The umbilical cord is a vital structure that connects the fetus to the placenta, facilitating the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products. It contains three main vessels: two **umbilical arteries** and one **umbilical vein**. The umbilical cord plays a crucial role in fetal development and survival.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Since the correct answer is not provided, let's discuss a general fact about the umbilical cord. The **umbilical vein** carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus, while the **umbilical arteries** carry deoxygenated blood from the fetus to the placenta. This exchange is essential for fetal growth and development.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Without the specific details, it's challenging to address each option directly. However, any option that suggests the umbilical cord contains only one or no arteries would be incorrect due to the presence of two **umbilical arteries**.
**Option B:** Similarly, any statement contradicting the role of the **umbilical vein** in carrying oxygenated blood would be incorrect.
**Option C:** And any option misrepresenting the function or the number of vessels in the umbilical cord would also be wrong.
**Option D:** This would be incorrect if it misstates the composition or function of the umbilical cord.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the umbilical cord typically contains three vessels (two arteries and one vein), and any deviation from this, such as a single umbilical artery, can be associated with fetal anomalies.
**Correct Answer:** Unfortunately, without the answer choices provided, a precise correct answer cannot be given.