Thoracic cavity

The body cavity above the diaphragm that contains the lungs, heart, and other thoracic structures. Its walls are formed mainly by the ribs, sternum, vertebrae, and respiratory muscles.

Mediastinum: The central compartment of the thoracic cavity between the pleural sacs, containing the heart and major structures. It occupies the central space between the lungs.
Intrapleural pressure: The pressure within the pleural space, normally lower than atmospheric pressure during quiet breathing. Its subatmospheric value helps keep the lungs expanded against the thoracic wall.
Thoracentesis: A procedure in which a needle or catheter removes fluid or air from the pleural space. It accesses a thoracic compartment to diagnose or relieve pleural collections.
Abdominal cavity: The body cavity below the diaphragm that contains most digestive organs and several other viscera. The diaphragm separates it from the thoracic cavity.
Pericardial cavity: The potential space between the serous layers surrounding the heart. It is a smaller cavity within the mediastinum.
Ventilation: The movement of air between the atmosphere and the lungs. Expansion of the thoracic cavity draws air into the lungs.
Chest tube: A tube placed through the chest wall to drain air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space. Its placement depends on the pleural cavity’s relation to the ribs and lung.
Pelvic cavity: The inferior part of the abdominopelvic cavity, enclosed by the bony pelvis. Unlike the thorax, it is bounded largely by the pelvis rather than ribs.
Diaphragm: A dome-shaped skeletal muscle separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities and driving quiet breathing. It forms the thoracic cavity’s floor and changes its volume during breathing.
Pleural recess: A potential space where portions of the parietal pleura meet without the lung fully occupying the angle. These recesses accommodate lung expansion as thoracic volume changes.

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