Learning Objectives for
Dissection of the Respiratory System and Posterior Mediastinum

Understand the relationships of the lungs in situ before removing them.


Basic concepts:
You may wish to review the basic concepts for the thorax at this time. The link opens a new window which you will need to close to return to this page.


Specific Learning Objectives:

  1. List each of the components of the respiratory system beginning with the nasal cavity.
  2. Describe the anatomical relationship of the lobes of the lungs and their surface projections.
  3. Discuss the pulmonary circulation and the segmental distribution of the arteries and veins.
  4. Compare and contrast the muscles involved in quiet respiration and forced inhalation
  5. Describe the lymphatic drainage of the thorax.
  6. Recall the distribution of the sympathetic systems.
  7. Identify anatomic structures in radiographic studies including X-ray, CT scans and MRI films.


Difficult parts of the dissection:

  1. The only difficult part of this dissection is the removal of the parietal pleura from the posterior wall to expose the sympathetic chain and intercostal nerves, arteries and veins.

John A. McNulty, Ph.D.
Last Updated: Mar 12, 2000
Created: Mar 12, 2000