title: Anatomy and physiology of the thoracic lymphatic system.
abstract: The thoracic lymphatic system is one of the most complex and poorly understood systems of the human body, and much is still to be learned, especially in lymphatic physiology. Knowledge of the normal anatomy of this system as well as of its variations is nevertheless important for thoracic surgeons investigating and treating patients with lung or esophageal neoplasms.
authors.affiliation: Department of Thoracic Surgery, Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Quebec City, Quebec G1V 4G5, Canada.
authors.forename: Matias Losano
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Brotons
authors.forename: Ciprian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Bolca
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Fréchette
authors.forename: Jean
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Deslauriers
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D008196:Lymph / Q000502:physiology; D008208:Lymphatic System / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D042601:Lymphatic Vessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D008488:Medical Illustration; D009367:Neoplasm Staging / Q000379:methods; D013909:Thorax / Q000033:anatomy & histology*