ANATOMY

Question 1

What are the functions of the diaphragm?

Answer 1

To separate the thoracic and abdominal cavities and to alter the volume of the thoracic cavity through contraction/relaxation which aids inspiration/expiration

Question 2

What are the 3 hiatuses in the diaphragm and what passes through them?

Answer 2

Cabal hiatus - inferior vena cava passes through at T8
Oesophageal hiatus - oesophagus, anterior and posterior a gal trunks pass through at T10
Aortic hiatus - aorta, azygous vein and thoracic duct pass through at T12

Question 3

Describe the outer layers of the lungs?

Answer 3

We have parietal and viscera layers of the pleural membrane with a small volume of pleural fluid to keep the lungs moist between the layers

Question 4

Describe the external structure of the lungs

Answer 4

The left lung has 2 lobes separated by an oblique fissure whilst the right lung has 3 lobes separated by the oblique and horizontal fissures
The left lung also has a cardiac notch with a lingual process to make room for the heart

Question 5

Describe how you can determine which is the right/left hilum of the lung?

Answer 5

Right anterior left superior

The left lung has the pulmonary artery superior to the principle bronchus whilst the right lung has it anterior

Question 6

What is the mediastinum?

Answer 6

A central mass of tissue between the 2 pleural cavities

Question 7

How is the mediastinum divided up?

Answer 7

It has a selection and inferior region separated by the transverse plane at T4/T5
The inferior mediastinum is further divided into the anterior, posterior and middle mediastinum

Question 8

Describe the structure of the sternum?

Answer 8

The manubrium is the most superior part with the xiphisternum being the most inferior area
The manubrium articulates with the clavicles
Sternal joints attach the sternum and costal cartilages
Costochondral joins connect the ribs and costal cartilage