The superior mediastinum is the region bounded by:
The principal difference between the right and left of the superior mediastinum is that the great veins are generally disposed to the right whereas the arteries are on the left. Correspondingly, there is more room for potential expansion on the right side of the superior mediastinum to accommodate the volume changes of the venous system. Also, the greater expansibility of the right side encourages space-occupying masses to project first in this direction.
The superior mediastinum has been divided up in the submenu according to the relationship of structures to the arch of the aorta; a description of the route taken by the aortic arch is given in the submenu:
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