How is the mediastinum divided?

How is the mediastinum divided?

The mediastinum is divided into the superior mediastinum and inferior mediastinum by a transverse plane that extends from the sternal angle (manubriosternal junction), to the intervertebral disc between T4 and T5 vertebrae.

How many types of mediastinum are there?

Regions of the Mediastinum and Common Conditions The mediastinum is generally considered to include 3 distinct regions: Anterior (or anterosuperior mediastinum), Middle mediastinum. Posterior mediastinum.

What are the major structures of the mediastinum?

The mediastinum is an important region of the body located between the lungs. Structures that lie in this region include the heart, the esophagus, the trachea, and large blood vessels including the aorta. The mediastinum is also home to lymph nodes.

What are the boundaries of mediastinum?

Boundaries of Mediastinum are:

  • Posteriorly: thoracic spine.
  • Anteriorly: sternum and costal cartilages.
  • Laterally: mediastinal pleura.
  • Superiorly: thoracic inlet.
  • Inferiorly: diaphragm.

Does the mediastinum separates the pleural cavities?

The mediastinum separates the pleural cavities. The pleural cavities are the structures that contain the lungs. The lungs are lined by pleura and the pleural form the pleural cavities. You can see the lungs on either side and the medial wall of these pleural cavities forms the lateral wall of the mediastinum.

What is the anterior mediastinum?

Listen to pronunciation. (an-TEER-ee-er MEE-dee-uh-STY-num) The area in the front part of the chest between the lungs. Also called prevascular space.

Where does the trachea bifurcate mediastinum?

The thoracic part of trachea, which is located within the superior mediastinum of the thorax. It begins from the superior thoracic aperture and ends at the tracheal bifurcation. The bifurcation can be located anywhere between the levels of the fourth and seventh thoracic vertebrae.

What is part of the anterior mediastinum?

The anterior mediastinum includes fat, ascending aorta, lymph nodes, internal mammary artery and vein, adjacent osseous structures (ribs and sternum), and thymus.

What cavity is located in the mediastinum?

the thoracic cavity
The mediastinum is a division of the thoracic cavity; it contains the heart, thymus gland, portions of the esophagus and trachea, and other structures.