What structure is located at the sternal angle and marks the division of the right and left primary bronchi?

What structure is located at the sternal angle and marks the division of the right and left primary bronchi?

• A. Corina
• B. Trachea
• C. Aortic arch
• D. Carina

Answer: (D)

The correct answer is the carina, which is a significant anatomical landmark located at the sternal angle, also known as the angle of Louis. The carina is the bifurcation point of the trachea, where it divides into the right and left primary bronchi. This structure is vital for understanding the branching of the respiratory system. The carina is particularly notable because it’s sensitive and can trigger a cough reflex when stimulated, providing a protective mechanism for the respiratory tract. The sternal angle is an important reference point for healthcare professionals, as it aligns with the level where the trachea branches into the bronchi. Knowing the location of the carina is essential for medical procedures such as bronchoscopy, as well as during the evaluation of respiratory diseases, where the integrity of the bronchial tree is assessed. The other choices do not accurately fit the description of the structure located at the sternal angle that marks the division of the bronchi. The trachea is the structure before the bifurcation, and while the aortic arch and other vessels are close, they do not serve the function of marking this division of the respiratory passages.

The correct answer is the carina, which is a significant anatomical landmark located at the sternal angle, also known as the angle of Louis. The carina is the bifurcation point of the trachea, where it divides into the right and left primary bronchi. This structure is vital for understanding the branching of the respiratory system. The carina is particularly notable because it’s sensitive and can trigger a cough reflex when stimulated, providing a protective mechanism for the respiratory tract.

The sternal angle is an important reference point for healthcare professionals, as it aligns with the level where the trachea branches into the bronchi. Knowing the location of the carina is essential for medical procedures such as bronchoscopy, as well as during the evaluation of respiratory diseases, where the integrity of the bronchial tree is assessed.

The other choices do not accurately fit the description of the structure located at the sternal angle that marks the division of the bronchi. The trachea is the structure before the bifurcation, and while the aortic arch and other vessels are close, they do not serve the function of marking this division of the respiratory passages.