Chapter 2, Problem F2.1A

Summary Introduction

To label:

The membranes and cavities in the given thoracic and abdominopelvic regions.

Introduction:

The human body is composed of various cavities and associated membranes. The names of these cavities and membranes are given according to their location and different body planes. The anatomical study of these regions is essential to study their physiology effectively.

Explanation of Solution

The description of regions included in the given sections is below:

1. Thoracic cavity: It is also known as the chest cavity which is surrounded by the sternum, the vertebral column, and the ribs. The abdominal cavity is separated from the thoracic cavity by a membranous structure known as the diaphragm.

2. Abdominal cavity: The abdominal cavity is present between the pelvic and the thoracic cavity. It houses organs like adrenal glands, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, liver and major portion of the digestive tract.

3. Abdominopelvic cavity: It includes regions of the pelvic cavity and the abdominal cavity. Abdominopelvic cavity houses portions of the large intestine, small intestine, kidney, gall bladder, spleen, pancreas, liver, and stomach.

4. Pelvic cavity: It is surrounded by the pelvic bones and houses organs like the rectum, pelvic colon, urinary bladder, and the reproductive organs.

5. Cranial cavity: It is the space present in the skull which is surrounded by eight bones of the cranium known as the neurocranium. The neurocranium is responsible for protecting the brain.

6. Vertebral canal: It is the cavity present in the vertebral column. The spinal cord runs through the vertebral canal and is present on the dorsal side of the body.