Human Anatomy - Lab 21 Step 8

Laboratory 21. Mediastinum
Step 8. The Right Phrenic Nerve and Right Vagus Nerve

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Identify the right phrenic nerve [cross-section] and note its position relative to the right vagus nerve. The right phrenic nerve passes along the right mediastinal border, anterior to the root of the lung and reaches the diaphragm at the opening of the inferior vena cava.

As the right vagus nerve crosses the anterior surface of the subclavian artery, it gives off a major branch, called the right recurrent laryngeal nerve [probe] (Figure 21.4). The right recurrent laryngeal nerve ascends into the neck to reach the larynx.

Links and References:
Grant's: 1.57, 1.70-1.76
Netter: 218, 219
Rohen/Yokochi: 251, 252, 253, 262