Thoracic duct

  • At the level of T4/ T5/ T6 it inclines towards the left crossing the midline behind the esophagus

  • Lies on the left of the esophagus deep to arch of aorta

  • Terminates by entering the left brachiocephalic vein.

    Tributaries



  • (+) Posterior mediastinal nodes

  • (+) Small intercostals nodes

  • (+) Left bronchomediastinal trunk

  • (+) Left subclavian trunk

  • (+) Left jugular trunk

Receives all the lymphatics below the diaphragm and the left side above the diaphragm.