Thoracic Cavity ( Study Guide)
How is the thoracic cavity divided? - include the structures
* The thoracic cavity is divided into two lateral cavities ( R and L pulmonary cavities). - These bilateral cavities contain the lungs and the pleurae ( lining membranes). * 1 central cavity ( mediastinum) in between the lateral cavities. - the mediastinum contains all the other thoracic structures like the heart, thoracic parts of great vessesl, thoracic portion of trachea, esophagus, thymus, and lymph nodes.
What is the inferior mediastinum further divided into?
Anterior Middle Posterior
Where is the transverse thoracic plane located?
Between Ribs 4 and 5
How is the mediastinum divided?
Into a superior and inferior mediastinum.
What structures are found in the middle mediastinum?
Pericardium Heart Roots of great vessels Inferior vena cava
What are the 3 compartments that the thoracic cavity is divided into?
Right Pulmonary Cavity Left Pulmonary Cavity Central Mediastinum
What structures are found in the anterior mediastinum?
Sternopericardial ligament Fat Lymphatic vessels & nodes Branches of internal thoracic vessels Thymus (inferior portion - in children only)
What plane is the superior mediastinum in?
Superior thoracic aperture to transverse thoracic plane.
What structures are found in the posterior mediastinum?
Thoracic aorta Azygos veins Esophagus Thoracic duct Sympathetic trunks Vagus nerves
What structures are found in the superior mediastinum?
Thymus gland ( adults) " Great Vessels" Vagus Nerve Phrenic Nerve Cardiac Plexus Trachea Esophagus Thoracic Duct Preverterbral MM.
What plane is the inferior mediastinum in?
Transverse thoracic plane to diaphragm