The middle mediastinum is the central part of the inferior mediastinum, containing the heart within its pericardium. It also holds the roots of the great vessels, the phrenic nerves and, in many descriptions, the tracheal bifurcation and main bronchi with their lymph nodes. It is the largest subdivision.
| Location | Inferior mediastinum, between the anterior and posterior mediastinum, bounded by the pericardium. |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Blood Supply | Coronary arteries; Pericardiacophrenic arteries; Bronchial arteries |
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Holds the heart and the central connections of the heart, lungs and great vessels in position.
Enlarged lymph nodes are the most common middle mediastinal masses, from lung cancer, lymphoma, sarcoidosis or infection. Developmental cysts such as bronchogenic and pericardial cysts also occur here. Pericardial disease and cardiac enlargement change the outline of this compartment on chest X-ray.
Enlarged nodes around the trachea, carina and hila. Causes include cancer spread, lymphoma, sarcoidosis and tuberculosis.
A congenital fluid-filled cyst from abnormal budding of the airway, often near the carina. It can become infected or compress the airway.
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