transverse thoracic plane

like the transpyloric plane, a popular landmark for lots of things happening
T4-5

3 things change names

  • ascending aorta → aortic arch transition
  • aortic arch → descending aorta transition
  • dividing line between superior and inferior mediastinum

3 things split

and 3 things cross over

  • azygos vein drains to SVC
  • thoracic duct crosses oesophagus posteriorly R → L
  • left recurrent laryngeal nerve loops around aortic arch