Overview of anatomy and physiology of the

respiratory system
1.The airways
A.Upper airways
Nasal cavity
Pharynx
Larynx

B.Lower airways (tracheobronchial tree)

Trachea
Right and left mainstem bronchi
Segmental bronchi
Terminal bronchi
C. Functions of the upper airways
Transport of gases to the lower airways
Protection of the lower airway from foreign matter
Warming, filtration and humidification on inspired air

D. Functions of the lower airways

Cough
Mucociliary system
Macrophages
Lymphatics
Immunologic response
Pulmonary protection in injury
2.The pleura
The pleura are serous membranes that enclose the lungs
The visceral pleura directly covers the lungs
The parietal pleura lines the cavity of each hemithorax
The pleural space is a potential space between the two pleurae

3.The lungs
The right lung has three lobes, while the left lung has two lobes
The two lungs are separated by a space called mediastinum
There are approximately three hundred million alveoli in the lungs
The right lung is broader, but shorter due to the presence of the liver on the right side of the
abdomen
4.The thorax and the diaphragm
The thorax provides protection for the lungs, heart and great vessels
The thorax is made up of 12 pairs of ribs, bounded anteriorly by the sternum and posteriorly
by the thoracic vertebrae
The diaphragm is the main respiratory muscle for inspiration. It is supplied by the phrenic
nerve
The following are the accessory muscles for inspiration: sternocleidomastoid, scalene,
parasternal, trapezius and pectoralis muscles. They are used during increased work of
breathing
5.Respiratory control
Central nervous system control
✔ Medulla oblongata
✔ Pons
Reflex control
✔ Cough reflex
Peripheral control
✔ Carotid and aortic bodies