Concept about Trachea-The course is designed for the basic understanding of anatomical structures and physiological functions of human body, musculoskeletal system, digestive system, respiratory system; cardiovascular system; urinary system, endocrine system, reproductive system, nervous system, hematologic system, sensory organs, integumentary system, and immune system.The aim of the course is to acquire knowledge and skills regarding anatomy and physiology.
Concept about Trachea
Position
The trachea or windpipe, is a tubular passageway for air that is located anterior to the esophagus. It extends from the larynx to the upper part of the fifth thoracic vertebra (T5), where it divides at the carina into right and left primary bronchi. It is approximately 10 to 11 cm long and lies mainly in the median plane in front of the oesophagus.
The cartilage layer consists of 16 to 20 C-shaped rings of hyaline cartilage stacked one on top of another. The open part of each C-shaped cartilage ring faces the esophagus and permits it to expand slightly into the trachea during swallowing.
The solid parts of the C-shaped cartilage rings provide a rigid support so the tracheal wall does not collapse inward and obstruct the air passageway. The rings of cartilage may be felt under the skin below the larynx.
Functions of trachea :-
- Support and patency: The arrangement of cartilage and elastic tissue prevents kinking and obstruction of the airway as the head and neck move.
- Muscociliary escalator: This is the synchronous and regular breathing of the cilia of the mucous membrane lining that wafts mucus with adherent particles upwards towards the larynx where it is swallowed or expectorated.
- Cough reflex: Nerve endings in the larynx, trachea and bronchi are sensitive to irritation that generates nerve impulses which are conducted by the vagus nerves to the respiratory centre in the brain steam. The reflex motor response is deep inspiration followed by closure of glottis. The abdominal and respiratory muscles then contact and suddenly the air is released under pressure expelling mucus and/or foreign material from the mouth.
- Warming, humidifying and filtering of air : These continue as in the nose, although air is normally saturated and at body temperature when it reach in the trachea.
(Ref:- J. Tortora, 8 ed, P-463,464 + Ross and wilson-9 ed, P-246,247)
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