Fetal Pig Dissection - Anatomy of the Respiratory System

Summary

This video provides a detailed walkthrough of the respiratory system in a fetal pig, exploring key anatomical structures and their functions. The narrator begins with the external nostrils (nares) leading into the nasal cavity, moves through the pharynx, and details the role of the epiglottis in protecting the airway. The larynx, trachea, and bronchi are then discussed, along with the division of the lungs into multiple lobes. The diaphragm’s function in breathing is highlighted, and the pleura membranes are explained. Finally, the alveoli, where gas exchange occurs, are emphasized, offering a comprehensive view of the respiratory system.

Takeaways

• 😀 The **external nares (nostrils)** are the openings through which air enters the nasal cavity.
• 😀 The **nasal cavity** houses three bony structures: **superior**, **middle**, and **inferior nasal conchae**, which help filter and condition the air.
• 😀 The **pharynx** serves as the shared passage for both air and food, divided into the **nasopharynx**, **oropharynx**, and **laryngopharynx**.
• 😀 The **larynx** (voice box) connects the pharynx to the trachea and includes important cartilages such as the **thyroid**, **cricoid**, and **epiglottis**.
• 😀 The **epiglottis** acts as a protective barrier, preventing food from entering the trachea during swallowing.
• 😀 The **trachea** is the windpipe that directs air to the bronchi and is supported by cartilaginous rings to prevent collapse.
• 😀 The **bronchi** branch into the **primary**, **secondary**, and **tertiary** bronchi, leading to smaller bronchioles and ultimately the **alveoli**.
• 😀 The **lungs** consist of multiple lobes: the right lung has three lobes, the left lung has three lobes with an additional **accessory lobe**.
• 😀 **Alveoli** are the small air sacs where **gas exchange** takes place in the lungs.
• 😀 The **diaphragm** separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities and plays a vital role in breathing by expanding and contracting to allow airflow into the lungs.

Q & A

What are the external nostrils of the fetal pig called?

The external nostrils are called Nerys. They are the openings on the snout that lead into the nasal cavity.

What is the function of the nasal conchae in the fetal pig's nasal cavity?

The nasal conchae (superior, middle, and inferior) are bony structures inside the nasal cavity that help warm, moisten, and filter the air as it passes through.

What are the three segments of the pharynx in the fetal pig?

The pharynx in the fetal pig is divided into three segments: the nasal pharynx, the oral pharynx, and the laryngopharynx.

What is the role of the epiglottis in the respiratory system?

The epiglottis serves as a protective flap that closes the opening of the larynx to prevent food or liquids from entering the airway during swallowing.

Which cartilage is the largest in the larynx, and what is it made of?

The largest cartilage in the larynx is the thyroid cartilage, which is made of hyaline cartilage.

How does the cricoid cartilage differ from the thyroid cartilage?

The cricoid cartilage forms a complete ring around the larynx, whereas the thyroid cartilage is U-shaped and does not form a complete ring.

What is the function of the trachea in the fetal pig's respiratory system?

The trachea functions as the main airway, carrying air from the larynx to the bronchi. It is supported by cartilage rings to keep it open and allow air to pass freely.

How are the bronchi structured in the fetal pig?

The bronchi branch from the trachea into primary bronchi, and further divide into secondary and tertiary bronchi, eventually leading to smaller bronchioles and the alveoli for gas exchange.

How many lobes does each lung of the fetal pig have?

Each lung in the fetal pig has three lobes, with an additional accessory lobe located on the right side.

What is the role of the diaphragm in the respiratory system of the fetal pig?

The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a key role in breathing by contracting and relaxing to allow lung expansion and compression.