Anatomical Landmarks

Anatomical Landmarks

  • Transpyloric Plane : This plane is significant in identifying abdominal organs and is typically located at the L1 vertebra level in adults.
  • Gallbladder Fundus : The fundus of the gallbladder is situated at the ninth costal cartilage level and lies between the transpyloric plane and the vertebra.
  • Coeliac Trunk : This major artery branches from the abdominal aorta and is responsible for the blood supply to the liver, stomach, and spleen.
  • Superior Mesenteric Artery : It branches from the aorta at the L1 vertebra level and supplies blood to a large portion of the intestines.
  • Termination of Spinal Cord in Adults : The spinal cord typically terminates at the lower border of L1 in adults.
  • Hilum of Kidney : This structure is located roughly at the L1-L2 vertebrae level and is the entry point for blood vessels and nerves into the kidney.

Key Associations

  • The L1 vertebra is a critical reference point for locating various abdominal structures and the termination of the spinal cord.

These points are essential for understanding the human anatomy concerning the abdominal region and the corresponding neurovascular structures.

Diaphragmatic Openings (VOA)

  • V: Inferior Vena Cava - located at T8
  • O: Oesophagus - located at T10
  • A: Aorta - located at T12 (with the umbilicus corresponding to L3-4)

Scapula Anatomy

  • Spine of Scapula: Corresponds to T3
  • Inferior Angle of Scapula: Corresponds to T7 Spinous Process

Spinal Cord Extension

  • Adults: Extends to the Lower border of L1
  • Children: Extends to the Lower/Upper border of L3

Key Anatomical Reference Points

  • L1 :
    • Transpyloric Plane
    • Gallbladder Fundus
    • Coeliac Trunk
    • Superior Mesenteric Artery
    • Termination of Spinal Cord in Adults
    • Hilum of Kidney

This collection of landmarks is essential for clinical assessments and understanding the anatomy of the thorax and abdomen, as well as for identifying potential areas affected by injuries or trauma.