Trachea Anatomy and Function

Definition of the Trachea

• Basic Definition: The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tubular structure that connects the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi of the lungs.

• Function:

  • Provides a passage for air to enter and exit the lungs.
  • Acts as a conducting airway for respiration.

• Anatomy:

  • Location: Extends from the lower part of the larynx in the neck to the level of the fifth thoracic vertebra where it bifurcates into the right and left bronchi.
  • Structure: Composed of C-shaped rings of hyaline cartilage that keep the airway open, with a lining of respiratory epithelium.

• Length and Diameter:

  • Approximately 10-12 cm in adults.
  • Diameter ranges from 1.5 to 2 cm.

• Histology:

  • Lined with pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium and goblet cells, which produce mucus to trap particles and pathogens.

• Clinical Relevance:

  • Conditions such as tracheitis (inflammation of the trachea) and tracheostomy (surgical opening of the trachea) are associated with this structure.

Definition of the Trachea

• The trachea, also known as the windpipe, connects the larynx to the bronchi of the lungs.
• It serves as a vital passage for air movement during respiration.
• Extends from the lower larynx in the neck, terminating at the fifth thoracic vertebra where it splits into right and left bronchi.
• Made of C-shaped hyaline cartilage rings, which maintain the trachea's shape and keep the airway open.
• Lined with respiratory epithelium, which includes pseudostratified ciliated columnar cells and goblet cells that produce mucus.
• Average length of the trachea in adults is approximately 10-12 cm, with a diameter of 1.5 to 2 cm.
• Goblet cells and cilia collaborate to trap and expel particles and pathogens from the airway.
• Clinical issues can arise, such as tracheitis (trachea inflammation) and tracheostomy (surgical procedure to create an opening in the trachea).