Living Anatomy of The Thorax Flashcards
- What is the anatomical landmark for the sternal angle (Angle of Louis)?
The sternal angle is at the junction of the manubrium and body of the sternum.
- What structures can be palpated at the sternal angle?
The sternal angle marks the second costal cartilage, bifurcation of the trachea, and the arch of the aorta.
- At what vertebral level does the sternal angle lie?
The sternal angle is at the level of the T4-T5 intervertebral disc.
- What is the significance of the midclavicular line in thoracic anatomy?
The midclavicular line is used to locate structures like the apex beat and lung borders.
- How is the apex beat of the heart located in a living patient?
The apex beat is located at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line, on the left side.
- What is the clinical significance of the second intercostal space?
The second intercostal space is the site for auscultating the aortic and pulmonary valves.
- How do you identify the lower border of the lungs in quiet respiration?
The lower border of the lungs is found at the 6th rib in the midclavicular line, 8th rib in the midaxillary line, and 10th rib posteriorly.
- How does the position of the lung borders change during deep inspiration?
During deep inspiration, the lung borders descend by approximately two ribs.
- What is the surface marking of the oblique fissure of the lungs?
The oblique fissure extends from the spinous process of T2 posteriorly to the 6th costal cartilage anteriorly.
- What is the surface marking of the horizontal fissure of the right lung?
The horizontal fissure of the right lung runs from the 4th costal cartilage to meet the oblique fissure at the midaxillary line.
- Where can the trachea be palpated in the neck?
The trachea can be palpated in the suprasternal notch.
- How can tracheal deviation be assessed clinically?
Tracheal deviation is assessed by palpating the trachea in the suprasternal notch and checking for displacement.
- What is the normal position of the trachea on physical examination?
The trachea is normally midline, slightly deviated to the right at the aortic arch.
- What is the surface anatomy of the heart’s borders?
The right border of the heart extends from the 3rd to the 6th costal cartilage, and the left border runs from the 2nd to the 5th intercostal space.
- Where is the mitral valve best auscultated?
The mitral valve is best auscultated at the 5th intercostal space, midclavicular line.
- Where is the tricuspid valve best auscultated?
The tricuspid valve is best auscultated at the left 4th or 5th intercostal space near the sternum.
- Where is the pulmonary valve best auscultated?
The pulmonary valve is best auscultated at the left 2nd intercostal space near the sternum.
- Where is the aortic valve best auscultated?
The aortic valve is best auscultated at the right 2nd intercostal space near the sternum.
- How is the diaphragm’s movement assessed in a living patient?
Diaphragm movement is assessed using percussion and ultrasound during deep breathing.
- What is the anatomical location of the diaphragm’s domes in quiet respiration?
The right dome of the diaphragm reaches the 4th intercostal space, and the left dome is slightly lower.
- What are the surface markings of the pleural reflection lines?
The pleural reflections extend down to the 8th rib in the midclavicular line, 10th rib in the midaxillary line, and 12th rib posteriorly.
- Where can the thoracic aorta be palpated?
The thoracic aorta can be palpated in the suprasternal notch in thin individuals.
- How do you locate the intercostal spaces in a living patient?
The intercostal spaces are identified by palpating the first rib below the clavicle and counting down.
- How can the jugular venous pulse (JVP) be examined in relation to thoracic anatomy?
The JVP is assessed at the sternocleidomastoid’s lateral border and reflects right atrial pressure.
- What is the significance of the suprasternal (jugular) notch?
The suprasternal notch marks the superior border of the manubrium and the level of the T2 vertebra.
- Where can the subclavian artery be palpated?
The subclavian artery can be palpated above the clavicle, lateral to the sternocleidomastoid.
- How can rib fractures be assessed clinically?
Rib fractures cause localized tenderness and pain on inspiration, confirmed by palpation.
- How is chest expansion assessed in a patient?
Chest expansion is assessed by placing hands on the lower ribs and observing symmetrical movement during breathing.
- How can percussion of the thorax help in diagnosing lung pathology?
Percussion helps differentiate air-filled lungs (resonant) from fluid-filled or solid lungs (dull).
- What is the anatomical basis of referred pain from the diaphragm?
Diaphragmatic irritation can cause referred pain to the shoulder via the phrenic nerve (C3-C5).
