Posterior and Superior Mediastinum

Dr. Morton explains the mediastinum, a central compartment in the thoracic cavity, detailing its regions: superior and inferior mediastinum, with a focus on the posterior mediastinum. The posterior mediastinum is likened to the organized wiring behind a TV, containing structures like the descending aorta, azygos veins, thoracic duct, esophagus, and sympathetic nerves. The superior mediastinum is divided into venous, arterial, and visceral planes, each with specific anatomical features. The video emphasizes understanding the organization and function of these mediastinal structures.

What does the term 'mediastinum' mean in Latin?

• Middle

• Side

• Top

• Bottom

Which subregion of the mediastinum is located in front of the heart?

• Posterior mediastinum

• Middle mediastinum

• Anterior mediastinum

• Superior mediastinum

The acronym DATES helps remember the structures in which part of the mediastinum?

• Anterior mediastinum

• Middle mediastinum

• Superior mediastinum

• Posterior mediastinum

What is the function of the azygos system of veins?

• Drains venous blood from the posterior wall of the thoracic cavity

• Supplies blood to the heart

• Transports food to the stomach

• Drains lymph from the body

Where does the thoracic duct drain lymph into?

• Right atrium

• Right subclavian vein

• Left subclavian vein

• Superior vena cava

At which vertebral level does the esophagus pierce the diaphragm?

• T12

• L1

• T10

• T8

What is the role of the vagus nerve in relation to the esophagus?

• It drains lymph from the esophagus

• It supports the esophagus structurally

• It supplies blood to the esophagus

• It innervates the esophagus

Which nerve is formed by contributions from T5 to T9 sympathetic ganglia?

• Vagus nerve

• Lesser splanchnic nerve

• Least splanchnic nerve

• Greater splanchnic nerve

What are the three planes found in the superior mediastinum?

• Upper, middle, and lower

• Lateral, medial, and central

• Anterior, middle, and posterior

• Venous, arterial, and visceral

Which structure is NOT part of the DATES acronym?

• Descending aorta

• Trachea

• Esophagus

• Thoracic duct