GROSS ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -In all types, surgeons reach your heart through small incisions between the ribs of your chest.

Detailed explanation-2: -The pericardial cavity contains the heart, the muscular pump that drives the blood around the cardiovascular system. To expose the pericardial cavity, continue the incision into the pleuroperitoneal cavity forward through the coracoid bar and the hypobranchial musculature.

Detailed explanation-3: -Thoracic surgery can include a variety of operations in your chest (thorax). In addition to your heart and lungs, thoracic surgery can involve your esophagus, trachea or other areas. A heart valve repair, lung tumor removal or aneurysm repair in your chest all fall under the thoracic surgery category.

Detailed explanation-4: -The rib cage is opened to expose all internal organs within your chest cavity (a process called a sternotomy). Your surgeon next cuts through the sac-like lining that protects the heart (pericardium) to access the heart itself.

Detailed explanation-5: -Thoracic surgery focuses on the chest organs, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, and trachea.