Lower Respiratory Anatomy- Melody Hansmeier

2. Provides structural protection for vital thoracic organs. Located between the neck and abdomen.
5. Protective corridor for vital structures. Located behind the sternum, and in front of the pericardium.
6. Enhances lung elasticity. Separates the upper and middle lobe on the right lung.
7. Protective shield for heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. Located in center of chest.
11. Allows for collateral air ventilation to equalize pressure. Located within the walls of alveoli.
13. Circulates blood throughout body. Located in the middle of chest.
15. Enables smooth efficient breathing. Located within thoracic cavity and surrounding lungs.
16. Primary site for gas exchange. Located deep within lungs.
18. Distributes oxygen to alveoli and helps remove carbon dioxide. Located deep within lungs.
19. Minimizes friction with heartbeats, and prevents excessive filling/dilation. Located in the middle of mediastinum of the chest cavity.

1. Produces pleural fluid to reduce lung friction, and provide sensitivity to pain, pressure, and temperature. Lines inner surface of thoracic cavity, and is superior to surface of diaphragm.
3. Stabilizes chest wall and helps drive breathing. Located between the 12 pairs of ribs.
4. Helps with independent movement of lung lobes. It runs down from the 4th and 5th thoracic vertebral on the left lung.
8. Passageway for air to travel to and from lungs. Located in lower neck and upper chest.
9. Forces air in and out of lungs. Located in the base of chest.
10. Anchors lungs in place. Surrounding heart and roots of vessels.
12. Produces pleural fluid to reduce lung friction. It covers the surface of each lung.
14. Acts as a conduit for oxygen to enter alveoli and carbon dioxide to leave. Located at the end of the respiratory tree.
17. Fights infections and diseases. Located in the upper front part of chest.
20. Transports foods and liquids from pharynx to stomach. Located at back of throat and down chest.