Lobar bronchus

Lobar bronchus refers to a part of the respiratory system that plays a crucial role in air distribution within the lungs. Each lung is divided into lobes, and the lobar bronchi (also known as secondary bronchi) are responsible for delivering air to these lobes. The structure and function of the lobar bronchus are essential for understanding respiratory physiology and the management of various pulmonary diseases.

Structure

The trachea bifurcates into the right and left main bronchi, each leading to a respective lung. The main bronchi then branch into the lobar bronchi. The right lung, which is divided into three lobes (upper, middle, and lower), is served by three lobar bronchi. In contrast, the left lung, divided into two lobes (upper and lower), is served by two lobar bronchi. These bronchi further divide into tertiary bronchi, also known as segmental bronchi, which continue to branch into smaller airways leading to the functional respiratory units of the lung, the alveoli.

Function

The primary function of the lobar bronchi is to conduct air in and out of the lung lobes. They ensure that air is evenly distributed across the different regions of the lungs. This distribution is crucial for efficient gas exchange, as it allows oxygen to be absorbed into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to be expelled from the body. The lobar bronchi also play a role in the body's defense mechanism by filtering out particles and pathogens from the inhaled air.

Clinical Significance

The lobar bronchi can be affected by various respiratory conditions. For instance, bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, which can specifically affect the lobar bronchi. Bronchial asthma can also cause the muscles around the lobar bronchi to tighten, leading to breathing difficulties. In addition, lung cancer can originate in or spread to the lobar bronchi, significantly impacting their function.

Pulmonary lobectomy, the surgical removal of a lung lobe, involves the dissection of the lobar bronchus supplying that lobe. This procedure is often necessary in cases of localized lung cancer or severe lung damage.

See Also

• Bronchus
• Respiratory system
• Pulmonary alveolus
• Bronchitis
• Lung cancer

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