L71: Thorax and Breathing Flashcards
What segments of the spinal cord does the thorax span?
T1-12
What is the thorax composed of?
The ribs, muscles and sternum
What does the thorax consist of?
The heart, lungs, pleura, blood vessels, nerves
Which cavity contain the lungs?
The pleural cavity
Describe the boundaries of the lungs:
The lungs extend from the diaphragm (base), to just above the clavicles (apex). They lie against the ribs anteriorly and posteriorly
How is the medial surface of the lungs?
Slightly concave to allow space for other viscera
What does the hilum contain?
The bronchi, the pulmonary arteries and the pulmonary veins
How many lobes does the right lung have?
3
How many lobes does the left lung have?
2
What are the lobes separated by?
Left: Oblique fissures, right: oblique and horizontal fissures
What are the two pleura associated with the thorax?
Parietal: Lines the whole thoracic cavity and Visceral: Covers the outer surface of the lungs
What is the pleural space?
The space between the parietal and visceral pleura which produces pleural fluid to prevent friction
Explain the costodiaphragmatic recess:
This is where the parietal pleura double-backs on itself in the bottom, outer corners of the cavity. Upon inhalation, this opens up to create more space.
Which muscles depress the ribs?
Internal intercostal muscles
Which muscles (e)levate the ribs?
(E)eternal intercostal muscles
