Anatomical considerations in bronchoscopy.

A thorough understanding of intrathoracic anatomy enables the interventional bronchoscopist to perform procedures efficaciously. The review of the anatomy of the thoracic cavity focuses first on the trachea and the relationship of the airway with surrounding structures, knowledge important for the safe conduct of bronchoscopic procedures. We then describe the anatomy of the pleural cavity relevant to the practitioner performing pleuroscopy.