Organ
Trachea
Cartilage-supported airway between larynx and bronchi
High-yield
The upper end is near C6. The lower division is often referenced to the sternal angle, but its level changes with breathing and body position.
Overview
The trachea carries air through the lower neck and upper chest. Cartilage supports its front and sides; a flexible muscular wall at the back lies against the esophagus. Its lining moves trapped material toward the throat.
Reference facts
- Location
- From the lower border of the cricoid cartilage through the neck into the superior mediastinum
- Parts
- Cervical and thoracic portions with incomplete cartilage rings and a posterior membranous wall containing trachealis
- Blood supply
- Inferior thyroid branches proximally and bronchial arteries distally, joined by longitudinal connections
- Innervation
- Vagal branches, including recurrent laryngeal nerves, carry sensory and parasympathetic pathways; sympathetic fibers also reach the wall
- Relations
- Esophagus posteriorly; thyroid isthmus anteriorly in the neck, with major vessels related to the thoracic portion
- Function
- Air conduction and mucociliary removal of inhaled particles and secretions
Clinical correlation
Nearby thyroid tissue, vessels and the esophagus make tracheal anatomy important during airway procedures. Narrowing or injury can obstruct airflow.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the trachea located?
From the lower border of the cricoid cartilage through the neck into the superior mediastinum.
What does the trachea do?
Air conduction and mucociliary removal of inhaled particles and secretions.
What are the parts of the trachea?
The parts of the trachea are the cervical and thoracic portions with incomplete cartilage rings and a posterior membranous wall containing trachealis.
What is the blood supply of the trachea?
Inferior thyroid branches proximally and bronchial arteries distally, joined by longitudinal connections.