APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The major lymphatic vessels are: the thoracic duct: It begins near the lower part of the spine and collects lymph from the pelvis, abdomen, and lower chest. The thoracic duct runs up through the chest and empties into the blood through a large vein near the left side of the neck.

Detailed explanation-2: -The thoracic duct drains lymph from the right and left descending thoracic lymph trunks, originating from the lower 6 intercostal spaces (6 to 11). The duct also receives lymph from intercostal spaces 1 to 5 via the upper intercostal lymph trunks. Additional tributaries include the: mediastinal lymph trunks.

Detailed explanation-3: -The left lymph duct, or thoracic duct, drains everything else, including the legs, GI tract and other abdominal organs, thoracic organs, and the left side of the head and neck and left arm and shoulder.

Detailed explanation-4: -The function of the thoracic duct is to transport lymph back into the circulatory system. Interstitial fluid is collected by lymph capillaries from the interstitial space. Lymph then moves through lymphatic vessels to lymph nodes. Lymphatic vessels merge to create the lymphatic ducts which drain into the venous system.