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Carina vertebral level — FRCA Primary MCQ

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ModerateAnatomyCarina vertebral levelFRCA Primary

A right main bronchial intubation is suspected after moving a patient from trolley to table. A chest radiograph is reviewed to identify the carina. At which vertebral level is it usually found in an adult?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — T4-T5

The trachea bifurcates at the carina around the sternal angle, corresponding approximately to T4-T5 in adults. C2-C3 is far too high and relates to upper airway structures. T8-T9 and L1-L2 are too caudal. Knowledge of carinal level helps interpret tube depth and mediastinal imaging.

Reference: RCoA Primary FRCA Syllabus; Gray's Anatomy for Students