Costomediastinal recess

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The costomediastinal recess is a potential space at the border of the mediastinum and the costal pleura. It is part of the pleural cavity and plays a role in the expansion of the lungs during respiration. This recess is more pronounced on the left side due to the presence of the heart.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The costomediastinal recess is formed by the reflection of the parietal pleura from the costal wall onto the mediastinum. It is located anteriorly, near the sternum, and extends along the anterior border of the lung.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the costomediastinal recess is to allow for the expansion of the lungs during deep inspiration. It provides additional space for the lung to expand into, which is particularly important during activities that require increased oxygen intake, such as exercise.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The costomediastinal recess can be a site for the accumulation of pleural effusion, which is the abnormal collection of fluid in the pleural cavity. This can be detected through imaging techniques such as chest X-ray or CT scan. Understanding the anatomy of the costomediastinal recess is important for procedures such as thoracentesis, where fluid is aspirated from the pleural cavity.