Canonical Question
Procedure – ICC
Master answer
- Triangle of safety
- Lateral border of pectoralis major
- Anterior border of latissimus dorsi
- Superior to the 5th intercostal space – be aware the diaphragm (and liver/spleen) may be unexpectedly superior
- Layers (Superficial → Deep)
- Skin
- Subcutaneous connective tissue
- Fat
- Ribs and intercostal muscles
- Neurovascular bundle (intercostal artery, vein and nerves) lie in intercostal groove on infero-interior surface of the ribs
- External intercostal muscle
- Internal intercostal muscle
- Innermost intercostal muscle
- Parietal pleura
- Potential pleural space (pneumothorax)
- Visceral pleura
- Lung
Sakurai / Mooney 2016
Exam appearances
| Exam | Exact wording | Relationship | Success |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010B Q06 | Outline the physiological consequences of a tension pneumothorax. (60% of marks) Describe the anatomy relevant to the insertion of an intercostal catheter. (40% of marks) | historical_member | — |
| 2013A Q14 | Describe the relevant anatomy for insertion of an intercostal catheter. (60% of marks) How does breathing 100% oxygen help in the resolution of a pneumothorax? (40% of marks) | historical_member | — |
| 2018B Q11 | Describe the anatomy relevant to the insertion of an intercostal catheter. | historical_member | — |
| 2024B Q18 | Describe the anatomy relevant to the insertion of an intercostal catheter. | historical_member | — |