Some Clinical Anatomy Highlights of the Thorax, Abdomen, and Pelvis

Three regions make up the trunk of the body: the thorax, the abdomen, and the pelvis. Why is it important to know the clinical anatomy of these regions? The bones, muscles, organs, and other tissues found here work constantly to provide the rest of the body with oxygen and energy, and they also eliminate waste.

Following are the clinical anatomy highlights of the thorax:

• Thoracic cage (also known as the rib cage)

• Breast tissue and nipples

• Mediastinum (central compartment) and lungs

• Heart

Here are the main features of the abdomen:

• Abdominal wall

• Stomach

• Small intestine

• Colon

• Liver

• Gallbladder

• Pancreas

• Kidneys

• Ureters

• Spleen

Following are the main parts of the pelvis:

• Pelvic girdle

• Perineum (area between the upper thighs)

• Urinary bladder

• Urethra

• Penis

• Scrotum

• Testicles

• Uterus

• Uterine (Fallopian) tubes

• Ovaries

• Vagina

• Rectum

• Anus