Trachea and Principal Bronchi Flashcards
1
Q
What is the normal location of the trachea?
A
Extends from larynx (C6) to the 2 primary bronchi (T4)
2
Q
What structures does the trachea bifurcate into?
A
Left and right Main bronchi
3
Q
What are the C shaped structures around the trachea?
A
hyaline cartilage - c shaped
full circle completed posteriorly by smooth muscle (trachealis muscle)
4
Q
What is the function of the trachealis muscle?
A
Constricts trachea
runs adjacent to oesophagus (lies posterior to trachea)
5
Q
At what level are the primary bronchi normally found?
A
T6
6
Q
What do the primary bronchi branch into?
A
Lobar then segmental branches
7
Q
What is the bronchi carina?
A
Ridge between L + R primary bronchi
8
Q
Describe the right bronchus features
A
Right bronchus:
- wider + shorter
- more vertical
- enters R lung at T5
9
Q
Describe the features of the left main bronchus
A
Left broncus:
- Longer + thinner
- more horizontal (40-60 degree angle from trachea)
- enters L lung at T5
