U01.16.006 Lung Anatomy

Overview of Lung Structure

Right Lung: Consists of three lobes: Upper, Middle, and Lower.
Left Lung: Has two lobes: Upper and Lower, and includes the Lingula, which is homologous to the right lung’s middle lobe. The left lung has less space due to the presence of the heart.

Trachea and Bronchi

Trachea: The windpipe that divides into the left and right main bronchi.
Right Bronchus: Wider, more vertical, and shorter than the left bronchus, making it a more common site for inhaled foreign bodies.
Left Bronchus: Narrower and more horizontal compared to the right bronchus.

Lung Lobes and Fissures

Right Lung:
- Upper Lobe
- Middle Lobe
- Lower Lobe
- Horizontal Fissure: Separates the upper and middle lobes.
- Oblique Fissure: Separates the middle and lower lobes.
Left Lung:
- Upper Lobe
- Lower Lobe
- Oblique Fissure: Separates the upper and lower lobes.
- Lingula: A small, tongue-like projection that is homologous to the middle lobe of the right lung.

Relation of Pulmonary Artery to Bronchus (RALS)

Right Lung: The pulmonary artery is Anterior to the bronchus.
Left Lung: The pulmonary artery is Superior to the bronchus.

Carina

The Carina is the ridge at the base of the trachea where it splits into the left and right bronchi. It is located posterior to the ascending aorta and anteromedial to the descending aorta.

Table: Inhaled Foreign Body Pathway

Position	Likely Destination
Supine	Superior segment of right lower lobe
Lying on right side	Right upper lobe
Upright	Right lower lobe

Table: Inhaled Foreign Body Pathway

Points to Remember

The right lung has three lobes; the left lung has two lobes and the lingula.
The right lung is the more common site for inhaled foreign bodies due to the anatomy of the right bronchus.
RALS: Right lung—Artery is Anterior to bronchus; Left lung—Artery is Superior to bronchus.
The Carina is an important anatomical landmark located at the tracheal bifurcation.

Reference Links

Lung Anatomy Overview
Pulmonary Lobes and Fissures
Inhaled Foreign Bodies in Adults

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