Anatomy of the Thoracic Wall, Pulmonary Cavities, and Mediastinum

This chapter will review the mediastinum and pulmonary cavities within the thorax and discuss their contents. The role of the thoracic wall and its associated muscles, nerves, and vessels will be covered in relationship to respiration. The surface anatomical landmarks that designate deeper anatomical structures and sites of access and auscultation will be reviewed. The goal of this chapter is to provide a complete picture of the thorax and its contents, with detailed anatomy of the thoracic structures excluding the heart.