What is the pulmonary trunk and what is its function?

The pulmonary trunk is a major blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. It is the main conduit of the pulmonary circulation.

Where does the pulmonary trunk originate?

It arises from the upper part of the right ventricle (specifically the infundibulum) at the level of the sternal end of the left 3rd costal cartilage.

What are the main branches of the pulmonary trunk?

The pulmonary trunk bifurcates into two main arteries: the right pulmonary artery (larger and lower) and the left pulmonary artery.

What is the clinical significance of pulmonary embolism related to the pulmonary trunk?

A pulmonary embolism is a sudden occlusion of the pulmonary trunk by an embolus, often from deep vein thrombosis. A complete blockage can cause sudden death.

What structures are anterior to the pulmonary trunk?

Anteriorly, the pulmonary trunk is related to the sternal end of the left 2nd intercostal space, as well as the left lung and pleura.

How is the pulmonary trunk used in clinical monitoring?

In pulmonary artery catheterization, a catheter is passed through veins and heart chambers into the pulmonary trunk to monitor cardiopulmonary functions.

Pulmonary Trunk – Course, Branches & Relations