This illustration demonstrates a posterior view of the thoracic
cavity, highlighting the position of the heart in relationship to the
ribs and diaphragm. The left atrium, left ventricle, and coronary
sinus in the coronary sulcus between these chambers can be easily
seen from the posterior aspect. Note that in most cases, 2/3 of the
heart is positioned to the left of midline and the inferior aspect
is resting on the diaphragm, with the other 1/3 positioned to the
right. The apex of the heart is pointing inferiorly and to the left,
causing the long axis of the heart to be at an acute angle to the
long axis of the body.
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