Thoracic part
Pars thoracica
- Related terms: Thoracic part of esophagus
Definition
The thoracic part of the oesophagus is situated within the thoracic cavity.
In cats, the oesophagus transitions abruptly to the gastric mucosa at the level of the diaphragm, with the entire oesophagus located within the thoracic cavity.[1] This anatomical feature is significant as it correlates with the location of the high-pressure zone, reflecting the caudal oesophageal sphincter.
Similarly, in dogs, the oesophagus is generally contained within the thoracic cavity, with no consistent presence of an intra-abdominal oesophagus.[2] This anatomical arrangement has implications for understanding the pathogenesis of hiatal hernia and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
References
1.Clinical Topographical Anatomy of the Gastro-Oesophageal Junction in the Cat.Voutsinou A, Papazoglou LG, Antonopoulos I, Rallis TS.Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 2018;20(4):308-311. doi:10.1177/1098612X17706799.
2.Topography of the Gastro-Oesophageal Junction in the Dog Revisited: Possible Clinical Implications.Pratschke KM, Fitzpatrick E, Campion D, McAllister H, Bellenger CR.Research in Veterinary Science. 2004;76(3):171-7. doi:10.1016/j.rvsc.2003.12.001.
