Surface landmarks

Question 1

The superior angle of the scapula is at what vertebral level?

Answer 1

T2

Question 2

The inferior angle of the scapula is at what vertebral level?

Answer 2

T8

Question 3

The sternal angle is at what vertebral level?

Answer 3

T4/5

Question 4

The subcostal plane is at what vertebral level?

Answer 4

L3

Question 5

The nipples are at what intercostal level?

Answer 5

4th ICS

Question 6

What are the surface markings of the pleura?

Answer 6

8th, 10th and 12th ribs

Question 7

What are the surface markings of the lungs?

Answer 7

6th, 8th and 10th ribs

Question 8

What are the surface markings of the oblique fissure?

Answer 8

Posterior: T4 in midline
Laterally: 5th rib
Anteriorly: 6th costal cartilage

Question 9

What is the surface marking for the horizontal fissure?

Answer 9

Follows contour of 4th rib anteriorly

Question 10

What is the surface marking of the umbilicus?

Answer 10

Inconsistent position- usually L3/4

Question 11

What are the surface markings of the borders of the liver?

Answer 11

Upper border- 5th ICS

Lower border- from tip of 10th rib on right to just medial to mid clavicular line in the left ICS

Question 12

What are the surface markings of the gallbladder?

Answer 12

9th costal cartilage

Question 13

What are the surface markings of the spleen?

Answer 13

9-11th ribs

Question 14

Where is McBurney’s point? What is it?

Answer 14

On the right of the abdomen 1/3rd of the way between the ASIS and umbilicus.

Roughly corresponds to the most common location of the base of the appendix