Space
Mediastinum
The central thoracic region between the pleural sacs
High-yield
Mediastinal compartments are descriptive regions, not completely sealed chambers; imaging uses additional compartment systems.
Overview
The mediastinum extends from the neck to the diaphragm between the lungs' pleural sacs. In the traditional anatomical scheme, a plane through the sternal angle separates superior and inferior parts. The inferior part is subdivided around the pericardium into anterior, middle and posterior regions.
Reference facts
- Boundaries
- Sternum anteriorly, vertebral column posteriorly, pleural sacs laterally, thoracic inlet above and diaphragm below
- Contents
- Heart and pericardium centrally; great vessels, airway, esophagus, thymic tissue, nerves, lymphatics and nodes occupy the surrounding subdivisions
- Communications
- Continuity with neck tissues superiorly and through diaphragmatic pathways inferiorly
Clinical correlation
The location and tissue characteristics of a mediastinal abnormality help narrow its possible causes. Large lesions and spreading inflammation can cross descriptive compartment boundaries.
Frequently asked questions
What are the boundaries of the mediastinum?
The mediastinum is bounded by the sternum anteriorly, vertebral column posteriorly, pleural sacs laterally, thoracic inlet above and diaphragm below.
What does the mediastinum contain?
Heart and pericardium centrally; great vessels, airway, esophagus, thymic tissue, nerves, lymphatics and nodes occupy the surrounding subdivisions.
What does the mediastinum communicate with?
The mediastinum communicates with the continuity with neck tissues superiorly and through diaphragmatic pathways inferiorly.