Anatomy

Question 1

Describe the posterior, lateral and anterior boundaries of the superior thoracic aperture?

Answer 1

Posterior: Body of T1
Lateral: 1st ribs
Anterior: Superior border of manubrium

Question 2

Describe the posterior, lateral and anterior boundaries of the inferior thoracic aperture?

Answer 2

Posterior: Body of T12
Lateral: Ribs 11-12
Anterior: Costal cartilages of ribs 7-10 +xiphisternal joint

Question 3

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?

Answer 3

A group of disorders caused by compression of the brachial plexus and/or subclavian vessels at the thoracic inlet (ironically)

Question 4

Location of superior thoracic aperture?

What structures pass through the superior thoracic aperture?

Answer 4

Separates neck and thorax

• Oesophagus
• Trachea
• Vessels/nerves that drain and/or supply head, neck and upper limbs

Question 5

Location of inferior thoracic aperture?

What structures pass through the inferior thoracic aperture?

Answer 5

Separates thorax and abdomen

• Oesophagus + IVC = pass through diaphragm
• Aorta = passes posterior to diaphragm