Embryology and Anatomy of the Pleura

Abstract

The anatomy and embryology of the pleura is important for thoracic surgeons. Pleura is the serous membrane coating the surface of the lung including the spaces between the pulmonary lobes. Both layers (parietal and visceral) are continuing each other with forming of the pleural cavity. The development of pleura in human embryo is important in separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities. To sum up, we present here basic information about embryology, histology and anatomy of pleura. Surgical considerations on anatomy of the pleura are also underlined.