Normal Radiologic Anatomy and Anatomical Variants of the Chest Relevant to Thoracic Surgery

Abstract

Preoperative planning requires the careful review of imaging obtained to define anatomy and determine the optimal approach. Normal anatomy and anatomical variants can be challenging and in select cases may simulate pathology. Understanding the radiologic anatomy of the chest is essential to perform safe and successful surgery. This section focuses on the critical anatomic structures seen on imaging that every thoracic surgeon should recognize.