Pulmonary Anatomy Flashcards
Where does the bifurcation of the trachea occur?
The bifurcation of the trachea occurs at the level of the sternal angle (T4/T5 vertebrae).
What is the function of the ribs?
Ribs curve forward and downward from their posterior attachment to protect the thoracic organs and assist in respiration.
- True ribs = ?
- False ribs = ?
- True ribs are ribs 1-7, which attach directly to the sternum via costal cartilage.
- False ribs are ribs 8-12; ribs 8-10 attach to the sternum via the cartilage of the rib above, while ribs 11-12 are floating ribs.
Which rib is least likely to fracture?
The 1st rib is least likely to fracture due to its protected location.
What is the clinical significance of rib fractures?
Rib fractures, especially in the lower ribs, can puncture the diaphragm or organs, and cause pain during breathing.
What is a chest tube and why is it used?
A chest tube is inserted above the ribs to drain air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space, helping the lungs expand.
What is…
- pectus carinatum = ?
- pectus excavatum = ?
- Pectus carinatum is a congenital condition where the sternum protrudes forward.
- Pectus excavatum is a congenital condition characterized by a sunken sternum and decreased anteroposterior diameter of the chest.
What is barrel chest and what condition is it commonly associated with?
Barrel chest is an increased anteroposterior diameter of the chest, commonly associated with emphysema/COPD.
What is the primary muscle of inspiration?
The diaphragm is the primary muscle of inspiration.
What are the two sides of the diaphragm?
The diaphragm has a right hemidiaphragm, which touches the liver, and a left hemidiaphragm, which is more prone to hernia.
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What is the nerve supply to the diaphragm?
The diaphragm is innervated by the phrenic nerve, originating from C3, C4, and C5.
What happens to the diaphragm during inspiration?
During inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, pulling the central tendon down and forward, increasing thoracic volume and decreasing pressure.
What is Boyle’s Law in relation to respiration?
Boyle’s Law states that the pressure of a gas is inversely related to its volume, important for understanding the mechanics of breathing.
- How does the position of the body affect diaphragm movement? = In standing, gravity assists diaphragm contraction; in supine, abdominal contents can limit mobility.
What is the role of the external intercostal muscles?
The external intercostal muscles assist in lifting the rib cage during inspiration, similar to a bucket handle movement.
What muscles are involved in forced expiration?
Forced expiration involves abdominal muscles and internal intercostals, especially during actions like coughing and laughing.
How many lobes?
- right lung = ?
- left lung = ?
- Right lung has three lobes: upper, middle, and lower.
- Left lung has two lobes: upper and lower.
What is the apex of the lung?
The apex of the lung is the uppermost portion, located just above the clavicle.
What is the role of the…
- pulmonary artery = ?
- pulmonary vein = ?
- The pulmonary artery brings deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
- The pulmonary vein returns oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium.
What is lung parenchyma?
- Lung parenchyma refers to the soft, spongy tissue of the lungs, responsible for gas exchange.
- Stiffened lung parenchyma decreases lung compliance and causes scarring, leading to difficulty in breathing.
What is the hilus of the lung?
The hilus is the region where the bronchi, blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves enter and exit the lungs.
What is the function of the pleurae?
The pleurae are serous membranes that cover the lungs (visceral pleura) and line the chest wall (parietal pleura), with pleural fluid in between to reduce friction during breathing.
What is…
- pleuritis = ?
- pleural effusion = ?
- Pleuritis, or pleurisy, is inflammation of the pleura, often causing a pleural rub sound during auscultation.
- Pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, often after surgery or in congestive heart failure.
What is a pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural space, which can lead to lung collapse.
What is the difference between a hemothorax and a pneumothorax?
A hemothorax is the accumulation of blood in the pleural space, while a pneumothorax is the accumulation of air.
What is the innervation of the lungs?
The lungs are innervated by parasympathetic fibers from the vagus nerve, which cause bronchial constriction, and sympathetic nerves, which cause bronchial relaxation.
What are bronchodilators and their function?
Bronchodilators enhance sympathetic stimulation, relaxing bronchial smooth muscle and reducing secretion to ease breathing.
What are the major components of the lower respiratory tract?
The lower respiratory tract includes the trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli, responsible for air conduction and gas exchange.
What is the trachea and where does it bifurcate?
- The trachea is the airway that extends from the larynx to the carina, where it bifurcates into the right and left mainstem bronchi.
- The carina is a hook-shaped structure at the end of the trachea, located at the level of the 4th to 5th thoracic vertebrae, where the trachea splits into the bronchi.