Superior thoracic aperture
Superior Thoracic Aperture
The Superior Thoracic Aperture (pronunciation: su·pe·ri·or tho·rac·ic a·per·ture), also known as the thoracic inlet, is an anatomical structure in the human body. It is the upper opening of the thoracic cavity.
Etymology
The term "Superior Thoracic Aperture" is derived from the Latin words 'superior' meaning 'higher', 'thoracicus' meaning 'pertaining to the chest', and 'apertura' meaning 'an opening or hole'.
Anatomy
The Superior Thoracic Aperture is bounded by the manubrium of the sternum, the first pair of ribs and their costal cartilages, and the body of the first thoracic vertebra. It is tilted anteriorly and superiorly, and its shape is somewhat like a kidney bean or a biconcave disc.
The Superior Thoracic Aperture serves as the passageway for structures that move between the neck and the thorax, such as the trachea, esophagus, and nerves and blood vessels that supply the head, neck, and upper limbs.
Related Terms
- Inferior Thoracic Aperture: The lower opening of the thoracic cavity.
- Thoracic Vertebrae: The group of twelve vertebrae located in the chest area.
- Manubrium: The broad, upper part of the sternum.
- Sternum: The breastbone, a flat bone located in the middle of the chest.
- Ribs: The long curved bones which form the rib cage.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Superior thoracic aperture
- Wikipedia's article - Superior thoracic aperture
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