Rindkereõõne

Rindkereõõne, also known as the thoracic cavity, is the space within the chest of mammals. It is enclosed by the rib cage, the sternum (breastbone) anteriorly, and the thoracic vertebrae posteriorly. The diaphragm forms the floor of the thoracic cavity, separating it from the abdominal cavity. This vital space houses several critical organs, primarily the lungs and the heart.

The lungs occupy the majority of the thoracic cavity, responsible for respiration and gas exchange. Between the lungs lies the mediastinum, a central compartment containing the heart, major blood vessels like the aorta and vena cava, the trachea (windpipe), esophagus, and thymus gland. The pleural membranes, visceral and parietal pleura, line the lungs and the inner surface of the thoracic cavity, respectively, creating a pleural space filled with a small amount of fluid that lubricates movement during breathing.

The structure of the thoracic cavity is crucial for ventilation. The muscles of respiration, including the intercostal muscles between the ribs and the diaphragm, contract and relax to change the volume of the thoracic cavity. This volume change leads to pressure differences that drive air into and out of the lungs. Any significant compromise to the integrity of the thoracic cavity, such as trauma, can have severe consequences for vital organ function and survival.