The respiratory apparatus consists of those organs which receive and return the air breathed through the nose, mouth, and pharynx, and convey it in a system of closed tubes and cavities to the termination of the lungs, where it comes in contact with the capillaries of the blood, which permit, owing to their thin walls and the lining membrane of the air cells of the lungs — a gaseous interchange between the carbon dioxide and other waste materials of the blood and the oxygen of the air breathed during the act of respiration. The organs of respiration are located as follows: Larynx, Trachea, Bronchi, and Lungs. The Nasal Cavities. These are the proper channels for the air to pass through. However, the mouth can be used as desired by the individual, as is usually employed by persons suffering from any nasal obstruction or a deficient amount of air reaching the lungs, due to heart, lung, throat trouble, or changes in the blood which compel forced or labored breathing — dyspnea. The Larynx. This organ of voice is placed at the upper and forepart of the neck, between the trachea and base of the tongue. It communicates above with the laryngopharynx, below with the trachea. Relations: it has on each side of it the carotid vessels, and behind it the pharynx. In front are the pretracheal portions of the cervical fascia and the upper end of the thyroid gland, and on each side the sternohyoid and thyroid and the thyrohyoid muscles. The trachea is a membranocartilaginous tube, flattened behind, continuous above with the larynx, and below dividing into the two bronchi. The right bronchus is shorter, wider, and more horizontal, entering the lung opposite the fifth thoracic vertebra; the left bronchus enters the lung opposite the sixth dorsal vertebra. The lungs are situated in the right and left sides of the thorax, covered by the visceral portion of the pleura; filling the cavity, with the exception of the intervening mediastinum.
Key Takeaways
- The respiratory apparatus includes organs like larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs which facilitate the exchange of gases in the body.
- Nasal cavities warm and filter air before it reaches the lungs.
- Lungs are divided into lobes by fissures for structural integrity.
Practical Tips
- Understand the anatomy to recognize signs of respiratory distress such as labored breathing or use of accessory muscles.
- Keep nasal passages clear to ensure proper airflow and prevent dyspnea.
- Learn how to perform a tracheotomy in case of airway obstruction.
Warnings & Risks
- Improper handling of the larynx during emergency procedures can cause severe damage or death.
- Ignoring signs of respiratory distress can lead to hypoxia, organ failure and death.
Modern Application
While this chapter provides foundational knowledge on respiratory anatomy that is still relevant today, modern medical practices have advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans and MRIs for detailed imaging. Understanding the historical context helps in recognizing basic anatomical structures during emergencies when high-tech equipment may not be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main organs of the respiratory system?
The main organs of the respiratory system include the larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
Q: How does air travel through the nasal cavities?
Air travels through the nasal cavities where it is warmed by coming in contact with the highly vascularized mucous membrane lining them, preventing cold air from reaching the lungs at a low temperature which could cause congestion and be dangerous to health.
Q: What distinguishes the right bronchus from the left?
The right bronchus is shorter, wider, and more horizontal compared to the left bronchus, entering the lung opposite the fifth thoracic vertebra while the left enters opposite the sixth dorsal vertebra.