thoracic cavity and pleurae Flashcards
(19 cards)
Name the subdivisions of the parietal pleura.
“1. Costal pleura
Describe the costal pleura.
“Lines the inner surface of the ribs
Describe the diaphragmatic pleura.
“Covers the superior surface of the diaphragm. Tightly adherent to the diaphragmatic muscle.”
Describe the mediastinal pleura.
“Covers the lateral aspects of the mediastinum (heart
Describe the cervical pleura (cupula).
“Extends above the 1st rib into the neck (apex of lung). Covered by Sibson’s fascia (suprapleural membrane).”
What is the clinical significance of the cervical pleura?
“Vulnerable to injury in neck trauma/surgery (risk of pneumothorax).”
Which nerve supplies the parietal pleura?
“Somatic nerves: Intercostal nerves (costal/diaphragmatic)
How does parietal pleura pain present?
“Sharp
What is the costodiaphragmatic recess?
“A potential space between the costal and diaphragmatic pleura
What is its clinical significance?
“1. Most common site for pleural effusions. 2. Fluid collects here first in upright position (seen as blunting of costophrenic angle on CXR). 3. Target for thoracentesis.”
Where is it anatomically located?
“Between the lower border of the ribcage (costal pleura) and the diaphragm (diaphragmatic pleura)
What happens to this recess during deep inspiration?
“The lung expands into the recess
Why is it called a ‘potential’ space?
“Normally empty (pleural layers are in contact)
Landmark for thoracentesis?
“Needle inserted above the rib at the 9th intercostal space midaxillary line (to avoid neurovascular bundle).”
Name the recesses of the pleura.
“1. Costodiaphragmatic recess
Where is the costodiaphragmatic recess located?
“Between the costal and diaphragmatic pleura; the most clinically significant recess
What is the function of pleural recesses?
“1. Allow lung expansion during deep inspiration. 2. Provide space for fluid accumulation (e.g.
Which recess is most commonly involved in pleural effusions?
“Costodiaphragmatic recess (posterolateral gutter on CXR).”
Where is the costomediastinal recess located?
“Between the costal and mediastinal pleura
