BIOL 221 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Subclavian Vein, Thoracic Duct, Abdominal Cavity
1 Mar 2020
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Document Summary
Lymphatics are formed from the union of lymphatic capillaries. They are similar to veins but with thinner walls, less muscle, more valves and less connective tissue. Lymphatics carry lymph to larger vessels called lymphatic trunks. Lymphatic trunks are larger than lymphatics and with slightly thicker walls. They also have numerous valves to prevent backflow. They carry lymph to the lymphatic ducts. Lymphatic trunks are named for the areas drained. The intestinal trunk drains the gastrointestinal tract in the abdominal cavity. Right and left lumbar trunks draining the right and left legs, respectively. Lymphatic ducts are formed from the union of the lymphatic trunks. The right lymphatic duct is formed from the formed from the jugular, subclavian, and bronchomediastinal trunks and drains the upper right quadrant of body. The thoracic duct is formed from the union of the intestinal trunk and right and left lumbar trunks. In some people it starts as an enlargement called the cisterna chyli.
