The final step in this dissection is to blunt dissect the contents of the superior mediastinum
as shown. The superior mediastinum transmits the great vessels
such as the superior vena
cava, right and left brachiocephalic veins, the brachiocephalic artery,
left common carotid and left subclavian arteries, which are branches off
the arch of the aorta. The superior mediastinum also transmits the trachea and bronchi,
the phrenic nerves, and the vagus nerves. HINT: An easy way to find the nerves is to tug on them where they are dissected in the
root of the neck and feel for them along the mediastinal surface.
Do not be concerned if you cannot view the vagus nerve at this time since it goes behind the
heart and is best seen when the heart is removed as shown.
