Introduction & Trachea (MSØV)
1. Describe the Boundaries and Content of Thoracic Cage
The thoracic cage is a bony structure that provides protection to the heart, lungs, and other vital organs. The boundaries of the thoracic cage are as follows:
- Anteriorly: 6th to 12th ribs
- Posteriorly: Thoracic vertebrae (T1-T12)
- Superiorly: 1st thoracic vertebra (T1)
- Inferiorly: 12th rib
The contents of the thoracic cage include:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Esophagus
- Trachea
- Pleura
- Mediastinum
- Thoracic duct
- Brachiocephalic veins
2. Describe the Morphology of Trachea
The trachea is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx to the bronchi. The morphology of the trachea includes:
- Cylindrical shape: With a diameter of about 2 cm
- Cartilaginous rings: 16-20 incomplete rings that provide support and maintain the patency of the trachea
- Tracheal membrane: The posterior wall of the trachea is composed of a tracheal membrane, which is a fold of mucous membrane
- Subglottic region: The lower part of the trachea, which is narrower than the rest of the trachea
3. Mention the Blood Supply and Nerve Supply
The blood supply to the trachea includes:
- Superior and inferior thyroid arteries: Supply blood to the upper part of the trachea
- Inferior thyroid artery: Supplies blood to the lower part of the trachea
- Bronchial arteries: Supply blood to the trachea and bronchi
The nerve supply to the trachea includes:
- Superior laryngeal nerve: Supplies sensory fibers to the upper part of the trachea
- Recurren nerves: Supplies motor fibers to the muscles of the larynx and trachea
- Vagus nerve: Supplies parasympathetic and sympathetic fibers to the trachea
4. Describe the Applied Anatomy
The applied anatomy of the trachea is as follows:
- Endotracheal intubation: A tube is inserted into the trachea through the mouth or nose to facilitate ventilation
- Tracheostomy: A surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the neck to access the trachea
- Tracheal resection: A surgical procedure in which a portion of the trachea is removed and replaced with a graft
- Tracheal stenosis: A condition in which the trachea becomes narrowed due to injury or disease
Diagram: Trachea
+---------------+ | Trachea | +---------------+ | Cartilaginous | | rings | +---------------+ | Tracheal | | membrane | +---------------+ | Subglottic | | region | +---------------+
Flowchart: Tracheal Mucus Clearance
Tracheal mucus → Mucociliary clearance → Mucus is transported upwards → Swallowed or expelled from the body