Bronchopulmonary segment

Bronchopulmonary segment is a portion of the lung served by a specific bronchus and artery. There are ten segments in the right lung and eight in the left. Each segment is a discrete unit which functions independently from the others.

Etymology

The term "bronchopulmonary" is derived from the words "bronchus" and "pulmonary". "Bronchus" is a Latin word which means windpipe, and "pulmonary" is derived from the Latin word "pulmo" which means lung.

Anatomy

Each bronchopulmonary segment is pyramidal in shape, with the apex pointing towards the root of the lung. The segments are separated from each other by a thin layer of connective tissue. Each segment has its own bronchus and arterial supply, which enter the segment through its centre. The veins and lymphatic vessels drain along the borders of the segment.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of bronchopulmonary segments is important in clinical practice. They are used in the localization and treatment of lung diseases such as tuberculosis, lung cancer, and pneumonia. For example, if a specific bronchopulmonary segment is diseased, it can be surgically removed without affecting the function of the rest of the lung.

Related terms

• Bronchus: A passage of airway in the respiratory system that conducts air into the lungs.
• Pulmonary artery: The artery carrying blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs for oxygenation.
• Pneumonia: An inflammatory condition of the lung affecting primarily the small air sacs known as alveoli.

See also

• Lung
• Respiratory system
• Pulmonary circulation