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Sep 14, 2021 · The human heart is located within the thoracic cavity, medially between the lungs in the space known as the mediastinum. Figure 16.1.1 16.1. 1 shows the position of the heart within the thoracic cavity. Within the mediastinum, the heart is separated from the other mediastinal structures by a tough membrane known as the pericardium, or ...
Mar 10, 2015 · The heart has three layers. They are the: Epicardium: This thin membrane is the outer-most layer of the heart. Myocardium: This thick layer is the muscle that contracts to pump and propel blood ...
Nov 10, 2024 · The heart works in a rhythmic cycle of contraction and relaxation, ensuring continuous circulation of blood. Location. The heart is located in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity. It lies slightly to the left of the midline, behind the sternum, and between the lungs.
- Overview
- Function
- Anatomy
- Conditions and Disorders
- Care
Your mediastinum is a space in your chest that holds your heart and other important structures. It’s the middle section of your thoracic cavity, between your left and right pleural cavities (which hold your lungs). Many conditions can affect the organs and tissues in your mediastinum, including tumors and infections.
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What is the function of the mediastinum?
Your mediastinum has several important functions, including: Serving as a “house” for your heart and the roots of your great vessels. These are the blood vessels that attach directly to your heart to carry blood into or out of your heart. Protecting your thymus, heart and other structures. Fatty tissue and connective tissue in your mediastinum provide cushioning. Your mediastinum sits behind your sternum, or “breastbone,” which provides additional protection to this important area. Providing a passageway for structures to travel between your neck and your chest, and between your chest and your belly. For this function, you can think of your mediastinum as a railroad station. It contains body structures that act as railroad tracks, transporting cargo (like food or air) where it needs to go. For example, your esophagus carries foods and liquids through your mediastinum to get from your throat to your stomach.
Where is the mediastinum located?
Your mediastinum is located in the middle of your chest between your lungs. Mediastinum means “midway” in Latin. Its boundaries are as follows: The superior (upper) border is the root (base) of your neck. The inferior (lower) border is your diaphragm. This muscle separates your thoracic cavity from your abdominal cavity. The anterior (front) border is your sternum (breastbone). The posterior (back) border is your spine. The lateral (at each side) borders are the pleural sacs that surround your left lung and right lung. Advertisement
What are the parts of the mediastinum?
Your mediastinum is divided into several parts, which researchers call compartments. There are different classification systems for organizing these compartments. The main idea to know is that your mediastinum can be divided into either three or four parts. And their names refer to their position in your chest.
What common conditions affect the mediastinum?
Many different conditions can affect the organs and tissues in your mediastinum. Some conditions begin in the mediastinum, such as primary tumors or cysts. Other times, a disease (like cancer) spreads to your mediastinum from somewhere else in your body. Infections that affect your whole body (systemic) can also impact your mediastinum. Some conditions that may affect your mediastinum include: Aortic dissection. Cardiac tamponade. Esophageal cancer. Goiter. Heart disease. Lymphoma. Mediastinal tumors. Mediastinitis (swelling or infection). Myasthenia gravis. Thoracic aortic aneurysm. These conditions have a wide range of symptoms and treatments. Talk with your provider about your condition to learn more about what you can expect.
What tests check the health of the mediastinum?
Tests your provider may use to check your mediastinum include: Chest X-ray. Computed tomography (CT) scan. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Mediastinoscopy. Ultrasound. Your provider may order testing to find the cause of symptoms you’re having. Or, you may need testing on a regular basis to monitor an issue. Talk with your provider about the testing you need, why you need it and how to prepare.
How can I keep my mediastinum healthy?
A healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of many conditions that affect your mediastinum. Some tips include: Avoid smoking and all tobacco products. Ask your provider for resources to help you quit. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Exercise regularly. Check with your provider before starting a new exercise plan. Limit your alcohol intake. Take your medications as prescribed. Visit your provider for yearly check-ups. A note from Cleveland Clinic Your mediastinum is a space in your chest that holds your heart and other important structures. It’s the middle compartment within your thoracic cavity, nestled between your lungs. It can be easy to forget that your mediastinum is there. That’s because most people focus on what’s inside it (like your heart). But it’s helpful to learn mediastinum anatomy and the terms scientists use, especially if you or a loved one are diagnosed with a related condition. Talk with your provider if you have questions about your mediastinum or its role in your health. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/29/2022. Learn more about our editorial process.
Aug 26, 2013 · Heart Anatomy. The heart is around the size of a fist and weighs between 250-350 grams (less than a pound). Enclosed within the mediastinum, the medial cavity of the thorax, the heart extends obliquely from the second rib to the fifth intercostal space. It rests on the superior surface of the diaphragm, lies posterior to the sternum and ...
Location of the Heart. The human heart is located within the thoracic cavity, medially between the lungs in the space known as the mediastinum. Figure 19.2 shows the position of the heart within the thoracic cavity. Within the mediastinum, the heart is separated from the other mediastinal structures by a tough membrane known as the pericardium ...
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Nov 3, 2023 · The mediastinum, or mediastinal cavity, is a visceral compartment of the thoracic cavity. It completely separates the two pleural cavities by being placed longitudinally between them in a median sagittal position. It extends superoinferiorly from the superior thoracic aperture to the diaphragm, anteroposteriorly from the sternum to the bodies ...
