Thorax Regions

Abstract

The first chapter is dedicated to the superficial anatomy of the thorax wall, describing the most important orientation lines, thoracic regions, and dermatomes. In the second section of this chapter we focus on a detailed discussion of the deeper structures. The morphology of the thorax is defined and influenced mainly by the bony elements such as the ribs, the thoracic vertebra, and the bones of the shoulder, and by the muscular layer. Although individual variations can influence the relief and fine form of the thorax, there are fundamental characteristics that are true of all individuals. The superficial relief, which is defined by the bony skeleton and the borders of the visceral thorax cavity, do not correspond to each other. In the ventral aspect, the superficial border of the thorax is defined by the clavicle; on the dorsal side, there is a virtual line between the acromioclavicular joint and the seventh thoracic vertebra. The muscular layer at the visceral border at the superior thorax aperture is about two fingers over the superior edge of the clavicle. The same phenomenon is seen at the inferior border of the thoracic cage.