The mediastinum is the central region of the thoracic cavity, located between the two lungs. It contains the heart, great vessels (aorta, superior vena cava), trachea, esophagus, lymph nodes, and nerves. While much of the mediastinum is difficult to image with ultrasound due to overlying bone and air-filled lung, certain portions can be assessed sonographically. Echocardiography provides detailed views of mediastinal structures related to the heart, and focused ultrasound can detect mediastinal masses, pericardial effusions, and lymphadenopathy in some cases. In the context of sonography, the mediastinum is most relevant during echocardiographic examinations and point-of-care chest evaluations.
Sonography Term