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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the mediastinum within the thoracic cavity?
Which anatomical structure is located at the superior boundary of the mediastinum?
The inferior mediastinum is further subdivided into how many parts?
Which mediastinal compartment directly houses the heart?
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What structure is located posteriorly to the mediastinum?
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The transverse thoracic plane helps to delineate which two mediastinal compartments?
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Which of the following is NOT a structure included in the mediastinum?
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What is the relationship of the anterior mediastinum to the pericardium?
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Which vertebrae is the posterior mediastinum located between?
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Which of the following components is NOT found in the superior mediastinum?
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Study Notes
The Thoracic Cavity
- Divided into 3 compartments: two pulmonary spaces (right & left) and the mediastinum
- Pulmonary spaces contain pleurae and lungs, and are located laterally
- Mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity that separates pulmonary spaces
- Mediastinum contains all thoracic viscera except the lungs and pleurae
Mediastinum Boundaries
- Superior: superior thoracic aperture
- Inferior: diaphragm
- Anterior: sternum and costal cartilages (2-6)
- Posterior: thoracic vertebrae
- Lateral: pleurae and lungs
Mediastinum Subdivisions
- Superior mediastinum extends from the superior thoracic aperture to the Transverse Thoracic Plane
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Inferior Mediastinum extends from the Transverse Thoracic Plane to the diaphragm and is further subdivided into:
- Anterior mediastinum: between sternum and pericardium
- Middle mediastinum: pericardium and heart
- Posterior mediastinum: between pericardium and thoracic vertebrae (T5-T12)
Transverse Thoracic Plane
- Imaginary plane that extends from the sternal angle anteriorly to the 4th intervertebral disc between T4 and T5 posteriorly
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Description
Explore the anatomy of the thoracic cavity, focusing on its three main compartments: the pulmonary spaces and the mediastinum. Learn about the boundaries and subdivisions of the mediastinum, including its superior and inferior portions. This quiz will test your knowledge of thoracic anatomy and its components.
