Anatomy of the Thoracic Cavity Flashcards
What is a Body Cavity?
An area of the body which confines organs and systems with related functions. Lined by serous membranes.
What makes up the Thoracic Cavity?
Lungs and Chest Wall - Lined with Pleura
Heart - Covered by Pericardium
What lines the Abdominal and Pelvic Cavities?
Peritoneum
How is the Thoracic Cavity divided?
Divided into two independant pleural cavities and the mediastinum between them
Where are the attachments of the Parietal Pleura?
- Thorax wall (Costal Pleura)
- Fascia at Thoracic Inlet (T1 and Rib 1)
- Fibrous Pericardium (Mediastinal Pleura)
- Diaphragm (Diaphragmatic Pleura)
What are the two Pleural Surfaces?
Visceral - closest to the organ
Parietal - closest to the outside of the body
What is the Mediastinum?
Space found between the pleural sacs, sternum, costal cartilages, thoracic vertebrae and the diaphragm. It is highly mobile and allows for changes in volume and pressure.
Describe the location of the Superior Mediastinum
Between the thoracic inlet and the plane of the sternal angle (T4/T5 disc)
Describe the location of the Inferior Mediastinum
Between the plane of the Sternal Angle (T4/T5 disc) and the Diaphragm
What structures are found to the right of the Mediastinum?
Structures related to the right atrium and veins:
* Superior Vena Cava
* Arch of the Azygos Vein
* Inferior Vena Cava
What structures are found to the left of the Mediastinum?
Structures related to the left ventricle and arteries:
* Left Common Carotid Artery
* Left Subclavian Artery
* Arch of Aorta
* Thoracic Aorta
What is found in the Middle Mediastinum?
- Pericardium
- Heart
- Origins of Aorta and Pulmonary Trunk
- Terminal points of Superior and Inferior Vena Cava
- Some smaller blood vessels (pulmonary veins)
- Phrenic Nerves
- Branches of Vagus
Describe the Structure of the Pericardium
Fibro-serous sac that encloses Heart and roots of the Great Vessels
What is the Function of the Pericardium?
- Anchors the heart in place without compromising cardiac movement
- Prevents overexpansion of the heart