Anatomy of the Mediastinum in Relation to Endovascular Mechanisms

Question 1

Outline the subdivisions of the mediastinum

Answer 1

Superior

Inferior - anterior, middle, posterior

Question 2

What bounds the thoracic inlet?

Answer 2

T1, ribs 1 and jugular notch

Question 3

How are the superior and inferior mediastinum divided anatomically?

Answer 3

By a transverse plane between the sternal angle and T4/T5

Question 4

Where is the anterior mediastinum found?

Answer 4

Between the sternum and fibrous pericardium

Question 5

Describe the course of the azygous vein

Answer 5

Arches anteriorly, superior to the lung root to drain into the SVC

Question 6

What are the mediastinal branches from the aorta?

Answer 6

Coronary arteries
Brachiocephalic trunk
Left common carotid
Left subclavian
Posterior intercostals
Bronchial arteries
Oesophageal arteries
Mediastinal arteries
Pericardial arteries
Phrenic arteries

Question 7

Describe the course of the right phrenic nerve

Answer 7

Passes through the diaphragm with the IVC to supply the diaphragm from the inferior aspect

Question 8

What is the right vagus nerve associated with?

Answer 8

Lateral aspect of the trachea

Question 9

What is the left vagus nerve associated with?

Answer 9

Arch of the aorta

Question 10

What is the key anatomical difference between the right and left recurrent laryngeal nerves?

Answer 10

Right recurrent laryngeal nerve hooks under the right subclavian artery
Left recurrent laryngeal nerve hooks under the arch of the aorta