Lecture 15: The Lower Respiratory Tract Flashcards
What are the components of the LRT?
5
- Larynx
- Trachea
- Bronchi
- Bronchioles
- Alveoli
Where does the LRT want to conduct air form/to?
The site of gas exchange
What does the lower respiratory tract do to inspired air?
Completes cleaning, warming and humidifying of air
What does the LRT provide in terms of a site for gas exchange?
(2)
- Provides a barrier between the air and blood
- Large surface area for gas exchange
The larynx is a passage for what?
Air only
Where is the larynx?
Anterior to the oesophagus from the hyoid bone to trachea
What cartilage protects and maintains an open airway?
- Cricoid cartilage
- Tracheal cartilage
What does the Epiglottis do?
Closes over the airway when swallowing
What is the Glottis?
Voicebox
What happens at the vocal folds/cords?
Passing air causes vibrations therefore sound waves
What are the vocal folds/cords used for?
Normal phonation
What does testosterone do to the vocal cords?
Affects cartilage and muscle resulting in longer and thicker folds therefore a deeper voice
What are the vocal folds/vocal cords also known as?
True vocal cords
What are the Vestibular folds also know as?
False vocal cords
Where are the vestibular folds?
Superior to the vocal folds
What is the role of the Vestibular fold?
Prevent foreign objects entering into the glottis
What can the Vestibular fold produce?
Very deep sounds
Where is the Trachea?
Anterior to the oesophagus between the larynx and the bronchi
What is the function of the trachea?
Maintain a patent airway
What is the trachea made of?
c-shaped cartilage rings where the ends are connected by a band of smooth muscle
What is the name of the smooth muscle that connects the C-shaped cartilage of the trachea?
Trachealis
What causes coughing?
Contracting of trachealis
What is the lamina propia/submucosa layers of the trachea made of?
Many elastin fibres