Question

multiple choice question
the mediastinum is best defined as:
please select your answer-
a the space within the lung parenchyma
b the compartment between the two pleural sacs containing thoracic organs except the lungs
c the upper portion of the abdominal cavity
d the potential space behind the peritoneum

Explanation:

The mediastinum is located in the thoracic cavity. It is the central compartment between the two pleural sacs (which contain the lungs). It houses various thoracic organs such as the heart, great vessels, trachea, esophagus, etc., but not the lungs.

• Option A is incorrect as it refers to the lung itself, not the mediastinum.
• Option C is wrong because the mediastinum is in the thoracic cavity, not the abdominal cavity.
• Option D describes the retroperitoneal space, not the mediastinum.

Answer:

B. The compartment between the two pleural sacs containing thoracic organs except the lungs