Pääkeuhkoputkea

Pääkeuhkoputkea, also known as the primary bronchus or main bronchus, refers to the two tubes that branch off from the trachea (windpipe) in the human respiratory system. These tubes, the right and left main bronchi, lead air into the respective lungs. The right main bronchus is wider, shorter, and more vertical than the left main bronchus, which is a significant factor in cases of foreign body aspiration. Each main bronchus then subdivides into smaller bronchi within the lungs, which eventually lead to bronchioles and then to alveoli, the tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs. The inner lining of the main bronchi contains cilia, which are small hair-like structures that help to move mucus and trapped particles upwards and out of the respiratory tract, contributing to airway clearance. Inflammation of the main bronchi is a common cause of conditions such as bronchitis. The structural integrity and function of the pääkeuhkoputkea are crucial for efficient breathing and gas exchange.