MEDIASTINUM

Question 1

Parts and Contents of the Mediastinum

Answer 1

Superior mediastinum (T3 - T5): Aortic arch, Pulmonary trunk division, SVC
Inferior mediastinum (T5 - T9): anterior, middle, and posterior
Anterior mediastinum: Thymus/fibrofatty tissue, superior and inferior sterno-pericardial ligaments
Middle mediastinum: the heart, ascending aorta origin, pulmonary trunk origin, SVC termination
Posterior mediastinum: esophagus, azygos vein, thoracic duct, sympathetic trunk

Question 2

T4 Structures

Answer 2

Thymus, Brachiocephalic veins, aortic arch artery branches, trachea (division), esophagus, thoracic duct

Question 3

Aortic Knuckle

Answer 3

Visual of the aortic arch in the superior mediastinum on plain CXR

Question 4

Root of Neck

Answer 4

Bordered by 1st rib (60 deg with horizontal), T1 vertebra, and the jugular notch/upper border of manubrium sterni
Contains: the space of Burns, aortic arch branches, brachiocephalic veins

Question 5

Venous angle of Pirogoff

Answer 5

Union of sublavian and internal jugular veins