Mechanism of Breathing
1. Anterior: The apex extends about 2-3 cm. above the clavicle.
Posterior: The apices of the lungs rise to the level of the T1. This is an
important point to remember when assessing the lungs. Many practitioners do not
begin their assessment that high in the back or front.
2. The lower border is at the level of T10. The lower border descends on
deep inspiration to about T12 as the diaphragm descends. This is an
important point to remember when assessing diaphragmatic excursion. If you
understand this principle, then assessing excursion will make sense to you.
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