PULMONARY CARTILAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Pulmonary cartilage refers to the specialized cartilaginous structure found within the human respiratory system, specifically within the trachea and bronchi. It is a type of hyaline cartilage that provides support and maintains the shape and function of these airway passages.
The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a tube-like structure connecting the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi. It is composed of a series of C-shaped rings of hyaline cartilage, which maintain its rigidity and prevent it from collapsing during breathing. These cartilaginous rings encircle the anterior and lateral aspects of the trachea, while the posterior aspect is formed by smooth muscle and connective tissue.
Similarly, the bronchi, which are the main branches of the trachea that lead to the lungs, also contain pulmonary cartilage. The cartilage rings found in the bronchi are less complete than those in the trachea and are more irregularly shaped. This allows the bronchi to remain flexible and adapt to the movement of the surrounding tissues during breathing.
The presence of pulmonary cartilage is essential to ensure proper airflow and prevent airway collapse. The stiffness and structural integrity provided by the cartilaginous rings enable the trachea and bronchi to maintain their open and patent status, allowing for the passage of air into and out of the lungs. Additionally, the cartilage also helps protect these vital airways from external compression or pressure changes.
Overall, pulmonary cartilage plays a vital role in facilitating respiration by providing structural support and maintaining the patency of the airway passages.
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The c. of the second rib on the left side behind which is the beginning of the pulmonary artery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PULMONARY CARTILAGE
- oulmonary cartilage
- lulmonary cartilage
- -ulmonary cartilage
- 0ulmonary cartilage
- pylmonary cartilage
- phlmonary cartilage
- pjlmonary cartilage
- pilmonary cartilage
- p8lmonary cartilage
- p7lmonary cartilage
- pukmonary cartilage
- pupmonary cartilage
- puomonary cartilage
- pulnonary cartilage
- pulkonary cartilage
- puljonary cartilage
- pulminary cartilage
- pulmknary cartilage
- pulmlnary cartilage
- pulmpnary cartilage
Etymology of PULMONARY CARTILAGE
The word "pulmonary" is derived from the Latin word "pulmonarius", which means "of or belonging to the lungs". It can be further traced back to the Latin word "pulmo", meaning "lung".
The word "cartilage" is derived from the Latin word "cartilago", which refers to gristle or firm, flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body.
So, when combined, "pulmonary cartilage" refers to the firm, flexible connective tissue found in the lungs.
