Pertinent surgical anatomy of the thorax and mediastinum

Thorough knowledge of the pertinent anatomy of the chest will allow the Trauma Surgeon to effectively operate and successfully deal with the complex injuries of this cavity which are complex and often life-threatening. The thoracic cavity is not a single cavity but actually a series of cavities including the right and left hemi thoracic cavities, pericardium and mediastinum. This chapter outlines the anatomy and surgical anatomy of this very complex cavity.