This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Go to /pro/cpd-dashboard page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. CPD dashboard

Go to /account/subscription-details page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. Upgrade to Pro

Lung roots (anatomy)

Authoring team

The lung roots are the regions apposing the mediastinal surfaces of the lungs on each side where there is transit to and from the lung of:

  • bronchi
  • pulmonary arteries
  • pulmonary veins
  • bronchial vessels
  • sympathetic nerves
  • parasympathetic nerves
  • lymphatics

The region of the lung where the root joins it is termed the hilus; it is approximately central upon the diaphragmatic surface of the lung. The root is ensheathed by the parietal pleural layer where it merges with the visceral pleura at the isthmus; it forms a layer which hang down into a loose fold inferiorly. This fold, the pulmonary ligament, provides room for expansion during increased flow of blood through the root.

The roots on each side have a slightly different arrangement of structures across its surface; this is discussed in the submenu.

The relations of the roots include:

  • anteriorly: phrenic nerve
  • posteriorly: vagus nerve
  • superiorly:
    • arching over on the right, the azygous vein
    • arching over on the left, the aorta

Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.