Organs of the Thorax

Overview

The thorax contains key organs involved in respiration, immunity and endocrine function. This section introduces these structures and outlines their functional roles and anatomical relationships within the thoracic cavity.

Key Structures

Topics include the thymus gland, mammary glands, lungs, tracheobronchial tree and pleurae. Each article provides a clear explanation of structure, function and key anatomical details.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of thoracic organ anatomy is fundamental for assessing respiratory conditions, thoracic tumours, breast pathology and pleural disease. This section supports clinical reasoning and interpretation of imaging.

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Anatomical illustration of the thymus gland located in the superior mediastinum.

The Thymus Gland

The Breasts

Posterior view of the heart illustrating the venous drainage system.

The Heart

  • The Valves of the Heart
  • The Chambers of the Heart
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The Lungs

Diagram illustrating the trachea and bronchial divisions, highlighting the tracheobronchial tree anatomy.

The Tracheobronchial Tree

Diagram illustrating the parts of the parietal pleurae.

The Pleurae

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Muscles of the Upper Limb

Muscles in the Posterior Compartment of the Forearm

by Dr Oliver Jones

Illustration showing the subclavius muscle beneath the clavicles, extending between the clavicles and first ribs in lateral and anterior views.
Encyclopaedia

Subclavius

by Dr Oliver Jones

Lateral view of the extensor apparatus of the hand, highlighting the insertion points of the lumbrical and interossei muscles.
Upper Limb – Additional Structures

The Extensor Expansion of the Hand

by Dr Oliver Jones