The Thorax

Overview

The thorax houses vital organs responsible for respiration and circulation. This section introduces the skeletal framework, musculature and internal structures of the chest cavity, forming the foundation for understanding cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology.

Key Structures

Learners can explore the lungs and pleura, the heart and great vessels, and the compartments of the mediastinum. Articles detail the anatomy of the diaphragm, thoracic wall and neurovascular bundles, combining structural detail with clear clinical context.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of thoracic anatomy is essential for interpreting chest imaging, performing cardiovascular and respiratory examination, and guiding invasive procedures. Each topic integrates applied clinical anatomy, reinforcing understanding of the thorax in health and disease.

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Areas

  • The Superior Mediastinum
  • The Middle Mediastinum
  • +2 more

Bones

  • The Thoracic Spine
  • The Sternum
  • +1 more

Muscles

  • The Diaphragm
  • The Muscles of the Thoracic Cage

Organs

  • The Valves of the Heart
  • The Chambers of the Heart
  • +12 more

Vasculature

  • The Thoracic Wall
  • The Superior Vena Cava

Popular

The Upper Limb

Upper Limb – Additional Structures

by Dr Oliver Jones

Diagram illustrating the recurrent branch of the median nerve, highlighting its origin distal to the carpal tunnel and its innervation of the thenar muscles in the hand.
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Recurrent Branch of Median Nerve

by Kumail Jaffry

Illustration of the major branches of the lingual artery.
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Lingual Artery

by Janani Lambotharan