Thoracic Inlet

Question 1

Term

Answer 1

Definition

Question 2

Thoracic Inlet (Superior Thoracic Aperture)

Answer 2

The opening at the top of the thoracic cavity, allowing communication between the neck and thorax.

Question 3

Term

Answer 3

Boundaries of the Thoracic Inlet

Question 4

Posterior

Answer 4

First thoracic vertebra (T1)

Question 5

Lateral

Answer 5

First pair of ribs and their costal cartilages

Question 6

Anterior

Answer 6

Superior border of the manubrium sterni

Question 7

Term

Answer 7

Structures Passing Through the Thoracic Inlet

Question 8

Trachea

Answer 8

Airway connecting the larynx to the bronchi

Question 9

Esophagus

Answer 9

Muscular tube conveying food from the pharynx to the stomach

Question 10

Thoracic Duct

Answer 10

Major lymphatic vessel draining into the venous system

Question 11

Nerves

Answer 11

Includes vagus, phrenic, and sympathetic trunks

Question 12

Arteries

Answer 12

Left and right common carotid arteries, left and right subclavian arteries

Question 13

Veins

Answer 13

Internal jugular veins, brachiocephalic veins, subclavian veins

Question 14

Term

Answer 14

Ribcage Boundaries

Question 15

Superior Boundary

Answer 15

Thoracic inlet (superior thoracic aperture)

Question 16

Inferior Boundary

Answer 16

Diaphragm separating thoracic cavity from abdominal cavity

Question 17

Anterior Boundary

Answer 17

Sternum and costal cartilages

Question 18

Posterior Boundary

Answer 18

Thoracic vertebrae and intervertebral discs

Question 19

Lateral Boundaries

Answer 19

Ribs and intercostal muscles