Thoracic Wall: Accessory Structures

Question 1

The intercostal nerves arise from what?

Answer 1

The ventral (anterior) primary rami of the first 11 thoracic spinal nerves

Question 2

The subcostal nerve arises from what?

Answer 2

the ventral (anterior) primary ramus of the 12th thoracic spinal nerve

Question 3

Which layer of the thorax is typically a fatty layer?

Answer 3

The Superficial Fascia

Question 4

What layer of the thorax is an investing layer around the muscles?

Answer 4

Deep Fascia Layer

Question 5

What is the potential space of the thorax?

Answer 5

Pleural Cavity

Question 6

What is the function of the endothoracic fascia?

Answer 6

Prevent the innermost intercostal muscle from rubbing against the parietal pleura.

Question 7

What is a thickening of the endothoracic fascia over the apex o the lung is called what?

Answer 7

Suprapleural Membrane

Question 8

From superior to inferior, what is the order of the structures in the intercostal space?

Answer 8

1) Intercosatl Vein
2) Intercostal Artery
3) Intercostal Nerve

Question 9

What are the intercostal structures “sandwiched” between?

Answer 9

The Inner and Innermost Intercostal Muscles